Overview
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is a major church in Rome, one of the most important and most beautiful churches of Rome. It is one of the oldest churches in Rome and has a rich history dating back to the 5th century.
It is one of the four major basilicas of Rome and a significant pilgrimage site for Catholics. It also houses important artworks and historical artifacts.
Location
Address
Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore 42, Rome
Neighborhood: Monti
Coordinates
41.905600, 12.500400
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • Easter celebrations
- • spring flowers
summer
hot
- • extended hours
- • open-air events
autumn
cool to mild
- • fall colors
- • holiday preparations
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
- • Christmas decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead for Mass
- Dress modestly
- Check Mass times
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • stairs
- • large crowds
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
EUR
Typical Costs
Dress Code
modest, shoulders and knees covered, comfortable shoes, walking shoes, shorts, sleeveless tops, revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • 2 weeks for Mass, same day for tours
- • official website, local tour agencies
- • 48 hours
- • available for tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Santa Maria Maggiore
Size: 45 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Mass times, Tickets
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Rome Fiumicino Airport
Distance: 30 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historical importance, beautiful architecture, spiritual significance
Historical Significance: One of the oldest churches in Rome, significant in Catholic history
Insider Tips
- Free entry at all times
- Best views from the courtyard
- Local cafes offer discounts
Local Recommendations
- • Try local gelato at nearby shops
- • Ask for guide Paolo
- • Visit the nearby Roman Forum
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Italian, English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide angle for the facade
Result: Great architectural shot
Interior mosaics
Best Time: Daytime
Tips: Close-ups of details
Result: Stunning art details
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Roman Forum
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Historical Site
Colosseum
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Historical Site
Palatine Hill
Distance: 700m
Walking: 9 min
Type: Historical Site
Trevi Fountain
Distance: 1.2 km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Fountain
Pantheon
Distance: 1.5 km
Walking: 18 min
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Attend a Mass for a unique experience"
- "Combine with a visit to the Roman Forum"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Private Jubilee Tour: 3 Papal Basilicas with Santa Maria Maggiore
Rome: Santa Maria Maggiore & Liberian Museum Small Group Tour
Reserved Papal Audience Ticket with Assistance On Site
Papal Basilicas: St. John Lateran, Saint Mary Major, St. Paul outside the walls
Rome in a tour
Rome Private Family Walking Tour with Games for Kids
Rome Guided Tour of the Hidden Treasures of Trastevere
Discover the famous seven hills of Rome with the calessino bee
6H Golf Cart Day Tour in Rome with Lunch
Cascia, Santa Rita and Roccaporena from Rome Private Day Tour
Private Rome Tour See Works by Bernini, Caravaggio & Michelangelo
Mosaic Masterpieces of Rome Sacred Stories in the Eternal City
3H Churches and Food Experience on Golf Cart in Rome
Private Tour of Underground Rome
Private Rome in 2 Days Tour
6H Daily Tour on a Golf Cart with Itinerant Lunch at Rome
Colosseum and Ancient Rome Private Tour
Rome to Orvieto: Basilica, Well, Underground tour + Wine Tasting
Florence Day Trip from Rome with Lunch Private Tour
A sweet walking in Florence from Rome
Private Tour of Holy Sites and Christian Relics in Rome
Private Guided Day in Florence and Pisa with Transfer from Rome
Assisi from Rome - Private Day Tour with Luxury Car
Private Tour: All Day Trip From Rome to Florence
Quick Info
Available Tours
134
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
Free (donation suggested 5 EUR)