Sainte-Marie-Majeure Church
Rome's oldest basilica dedicated to Mary, boasting stunning 13th-century Romanesque architecture and serene interiors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Sainte-Marie-Majeure Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rome's oldest basilica dedicated to Mary, boasting stunning 13th-century Romanesque architecture and serene interiors.
"A beautiful church where you can escape the tourist crowds and the heat for a moment. "
🎯 Escape the Heat
Step inside for a cool, quiet break from the Roman sun and crowds. :thermometer_face:
🏛️ Architectural Gem
Marvel at the impressive Romanesque architecture, a highlight for many visitors. :classical_building:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning Romanesque Architecture
Admire the impressive 13th-century Romanesque design, a testament to enduring architectural prowess.
Serene Interior Escape
Find a peaceful sanctuary inside, offering a cool and quiet break from the bustling city.
Historical Significance
Explore one of Rome's oldest churches, a significant pilgrimage site with deep historical roots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
A Glimpse into History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Escape the Heat
Step inside for a cool, quiet break from the Roman sun and crowds. :thermometer_face:
🏛️ Architectural Gem
Marvel at the impressive Romanesque architecture, a highlight for many visitors.
🚶♂️ Peaceful Atmosphere
Enjoy the serene ambiance, a welcome contrast to the city's busy streets. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Escape the Heat
Step inside for a cool, quiet break from the Roman sun and crowds. :thermometer_face:
🏛️ Architectural Gem
Marvel at the impressive Romanesque architecture, a highlight for many visitors.
🚶♂️ Peaceful Atmosphere
Enjoy the serene ambiance, a welcome contrast to the city's busy streets. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sainte-Marie-Majeure Church for its beautiful Romanesque architecture and serene interior, offering a peaceful escape from Rome's hustle. While some note a need for more maintenance, its historical significance and free entry make it a worthwhile visit for many seeking a quieter, culturally rich experience. +1
"Old church. Rebuild for a couple of years ago. High tower. Seen from all over. Nice inside. Wide room."
Jon Bekkevoll
"Lovely church but clearly there is no money for maintenance - not kept up like all the amazing Spanish churches - a bit sad"
Elsa Augustenborg
"A beautiful church where you can escape the tourist crowds and the heat for a moment. The interior is quite nice, but to be honest, I’d recommend the church near the Old Town in Porto Vecchio more."
Karol Kamiński
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sainte-Marie-Majeure Church is accessible by public transport. Several bus lines stop nearby, and it's a moderate walk from some metro stations. Checking a local transit app for the most up-to-date routes is recommended.
Yes, its prominent tower is visible from many parts of the city, making it a landmark. It's located in the Monti district.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main basilica is generally free, though donations are appreciated. Special exhibitions or access to certain areas might require a ticket.
Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open daily from early morning until early evening. It's best to check the official website or a reliable local guide for the most current times.
The main church is usually free to enter, making it an accessible attraction.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautiful mosaics, impressive architecture, and a serene atmosphere. It's a place of worship and historical art.
Yes, you can experience its main highlights in about 30-60 minutes, though you could spend longer appreciating the details.
Photography is usually permitted, but it's always respectful to check for any posted signs regarding flash or specific areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the surrounding Monti district offers numerous trattorias, cafes, and restaurants serving traditional Roman cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The facade with its tower offers great exterior shots, while the interior's mosaics and grand scale are stunning subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels and Historical Layers
The impressive facade and the prominent bell tower are iconic features, visible from various points in the city. Inside, the basilica boasts stunning mosaics, particularly those in the apse and on the triumphal arch, which are remarkably well-preserved.
The vast nave, flanked by columns, creates a sense of grandeur and solemnity. Many find the interior to be a peaceful sanctuary, offering a welcome respite from the heat and crowds of Rome. Experiencing the Basilica Today
The basilica is also a site for significant religious events, with the Pope occasionally leading processions or prayer services here.
+2 This adds a layer of spiritual importance to the visit, reminding visitors that it remains an active place of worship. For those seeking a less crowded experience, it's often recommended over more heavily touristed sites. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit