• Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano - Entering the portico of this grand church, visitors will be amazed by its immense size and historical significance.

The massive central doors, crafted in bronze, once graced the entrance of the Curia Iulia, the ancient senate house in the Roman Forum.

Visitors will also have the chance to see the Holy Doors, which are only opened during a Jubilee or Holy Year, occurring every 25 years. The guide will elaborate on the profound theological meaning and historical importance of the Jubilee, a significant year of pilgrimage for Catholics worldwide.

Inside the Basilica, Borromini’s magnificent Baroque design, which transformed the interior in the 17th Century, will greet visitors.

Remnants of the ancient Basilica still exist; the guide will reveal medieval frescos by Giotto and explain the intricate iconography of the apse mosaics. Visitors will also learn about the history of the early Church in Rome and how the relics of Saints Peter and Paul came to be housed here.

• Scala Santa and Chapel of San Lorenzo - Accompany the guide to explore more of this once-vast and ancient complex. Begin with the Holy Steps (Scala Santa), a set of 28 marble steps brought to Rome by St. Helen, Constantine’s mother. Tradition holds that these are the steps Christ ascended in the palace of Pontius Pilate during the Passion. They remain a solemn pilgrimage site for the faithful.

At the top is the Sancta Santorum (Holy of Holies). Before the Sistine Chapel, this was the pope’s private chapel, once containing some of the most treasured relics in the Christian world. It still houses the mysterious “acheiropoieton,” an ancient image of Christ believed to have been painted by angels (accessible on a private tour).

• Lateran Baptistery - Next, visit the Lateran Baptistery, the legendary site of Constantine’s baptism. Its octagonal design inspired other baptistries across Italy and Europe, including the renowned Baptistry of Florence. Why were early baptistries eight-sided, and why were they separate structures? The local guide will provide answers to these questions and more.

Before departing the Lateran, take a moment to admire the towering Lateran Obelisk, the tallest standing obelisk in the world today. Discover how these ancient Egyptian monuments were repurposed, first by the Romans and later by the Christian Church.

• Via Merulana - Now, embark on a personal pilgrimage down Via Merulana, a road established in the 16th Century to assist visitors to Rome on their pilgrimage. The next destination is visible at the end of this straight avenue.

Along the way, stop at one of Rome’s most renowned bakeries—Panella. Operating since 1929, Panella has kept Romans energized with its excellent coffee and sweet treats for years. Try the traditional Roman maritozzi, sweet yeasted buns filled with freshly whipped cream—perfect for a weary pilgrim!

The view over the Auditorium of Mecenate serves as a reminder of this area’s significance, even in ancient times.

• Santa Maria Maggiore - Finally, arrive at the highest of Rome’s seven hills, the Esquiline, home to the largest church dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Rome.

The story of this Basilica is a blend of history and legend, but among Rome’s papal basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore feels the most ancient upon entering.

In addition to its revered Holy Door, this Basilica features ancient Cosmatesque floors and a ceiling adorned with some of the first gold from the New World. Among various relics and ancient mosaics, visitors will also find another Sistine Chapel (the resting place of Sixtus V), the grave of the Baroque master Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and a sacred image of the Virgin, Salus Populi Romani—an ancient image said to have saved the people of Rome in the 6th Century AD. Conclude the personal pilgrimage at the obelisk of Santa Maria Maggiore, an ancient treasure just steps from Rome’s main train station and the stylish Monti district.

• Expert, fluent English-speaking guide
• Headsets for groups of six or more
• Stop at Panella Bakery to try Traditional Roman Pastries (consumptions not included)

• Transportation
• Gratuities

• Please advise if any travelers have mobility issues so we can best accommodate you.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.