Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major?
What makes it 74% Kids-Friendly: Entry is free and glittering ceilings engage children, and ages 7+ can climb the dome, but there are long periods of silence, no play area, and under-7s cannot join most paid tours.
Positives:
- Central entry is free: No ticket needed for the main nave lets you explore at your own pace.
- Termini station nearby: A 5-minute walk from Rome Termini station makes transfers easy.
Challenges:
- Limited seating inside: Few benches mean kids may get tired standing during guided tours.
- Security lines: Expect bag checks; carry only essentials to speed up entry.
What is Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major?
- A papal major basilica in Rome, founded in the 5th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary
- A repository of early Christian art, housing 5th-century mosaics, ancient marble columns repurposed from Roman temples, and a gilded coffered ceiling
- A layered architectural ensemble crowned by a 75-meter 14th-century bell tower and an 18th-century Baroque façade
What is so special about Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major for with kids?
- 5th-century mosaics spark kids’ imaginations with hidden scenes.
- Dome climb offers a rewarding panoramic view for older children.
- Free volunteer tours make art and history fun and interactive.
- Museum activity sheets keep children engaged with Pope and Bernini stories.
- Cloakroom service and stroller loan ease the visit with younger kids.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This allows time for self-guided exploration, a child-friendly tour, and breaks without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major
Admire 5th-century mosaics:
View the Old Testament scenes above the high altar.
Tip: Challenge kids to find hidden animals and characters in each panel.
Climb the central dome:
Ascend 250 spiral steps for a 360° view of Rome.
Tip: Buy dome tickets online and bring water; only kids 7+ can join.
Join a volunteer-led tour:
Meet guides at 10:00, 11:30 or 14:00 for free one-hour tours.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to secure headsets and seats.
Explore the Liberian Historical Museum:
See the Pope’s Hall, Bernini family tomb and treasury artifacts.
Tip: Ask for kids’ activity sheets to keep children engaged.
Use cloakroom and gift shop:
Borrow a light stroller and browse child-friendly souvenirs.
Tip: Leave bulky prams at the cloakroom and pick up a fold-up stroller.
When is the best time to visit Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major (Rome, Italy)?
In July–August, visit early morning to avoid heat. In Dec–Jan, see the basilica’s Christmas crib installation near the entrance. Spring and autumn offer milder weather and smaller crowds on weekdays.
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Reviews of Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major (Rome)
Rachel B
This is an amazing basilica to visit. I recommend getting the full ticket as well as free entry. It was very cool going up on the roof terraces. Book ahead for the underground or you'll miss out. Large queue on left to see Pope Francis' tomb, but other than that access is easy after the security check. It is an active church so shoulders and knees covered, no hats for men.
Wilfred Yiu
Basilica of Saint Mary is very worthwhile to visit. This is also where Pope Francis and Bernini are buried. Amazing architecture and rich artwork. We went around 8am Monday and there is no line.
Sami Peterson
Definitely worth a stop at. It is a beautiful papal Basilica one of four and the holy doors are open for the jubilee this year so that was very cool to see this is also where the last Pope is buried and you can see where they have marked his burial/tomb. As always, the artwork and the stained glass above the door is absolutely breathtaking. Definitely worth a stop even if you only have 20 minutes ...
Misiu martino
IT'S A MUST IN ROME!!! St. Mary Major stands slightly elevated with respect to the street layout of the Esquiline district and, in addition to being a station in the Pilgrimage of the Seven Churches , it is one of the six papal basilicas of Italy, which are of particular importance within the Catholic Church. Most likely founded in the 5th century by Pope Sixtus III, it is the only one of the grea...
JK V
The architecture is absolutely breathtaking; as I tilted my head upward to take in the intricate details of the ceiling, I felt as though I was being transported into a narrative woven through time. Each ornate design and subtle flourish seemed to whisper tales of history and artistry, evoking a profound sense of reverence within me. In that moment, I truly sensed the embrace of the holy spirit gr...
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Dome climb (2 adults + 1 child) | EUR 91 |
| Family guided tour (2 adults + 1 child) | EUR 72 |
| Liberian Museum entry (2 adults + 1 child) | EUR 8 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 171 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major
- Bring collapsible stroller: Use a lightweight stroller to navigate narrow aisles.
- Combine with a park visit: Schedule 30 minutes at nearby Villa Celimontana playground after touring.
- Download audio guide app: Pre-install the basilica’s free audio guide on your phone for offline use.
Map of Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major
Address: P.za di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma RM, Italy
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About Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+39 06 6988 680010 BEST nearby Activities
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