About this experience
The Eternal City is also known as the Holy City, as it is one of the world centers of Christianity. It is here that the apostles Paul and Peter, considered the first Roman pope, were martyred. From here, the new religion spread throughout the empire. In terms of the number of relics of universal significance, Rome surpasses all cities in Europe. During the tour, you will visit the iconic shrines of the capital and touch the heart of the early Christian era.
What to Expect
Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
This is the largest and oldest basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Beneath the main altar lies the Holy Cradle. A precious crystal urn, silver-painted, conceals boards from the wooden mangers in which the infant Jesus once lay.
Basilica of Saint Praxedes
In one of the oldest and most interesting churches in Rome, we will explore the chapel of Saint Zeno, known as the 'heavenly garden.' I will show you a part of the column to which Christ was tied during the scourging, as well as a reliquary with three thorns from the crown of thorns. The unique atmosphere of the church and the Byzantine mosaic are impressive.
Church of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem
Here you will see parts of the True Cross and other relics of the Passion of Christ, brought from Jerusalem by Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine. The church has a chapel dedicated to her, arranged in the room that served as her residence. I will also tell you about the soil brought here from Golgotha.
Basilica of St. John Lateran
Before us is the main cathedral of the Catholic Christian world, the mother and head of all the churches of Rome and the world. The Lateran Palace was the residence of the Roman popes until the beginning of the 14th century. It once played the same role as the Vatican does now. You will appreciate the luxurious decoration of the cathedral, where the heads of the saints Peter and Paul are kept, and the shadow over the Chapel of the Holy Mysteries is supported by columns from the Temple of Solomon. Here is the cedar table at which, according to tradition, the Savior celebrated the Last Supper with his disciples and instituted the Eucharist. And in the papal altar is preserved the board on which the apostle Peter officiated.
Church of the Holy Stairs
The church next to the Lateran Cathedral received its name thanks to the ancient cypress box under the papal throne. It has long housed parts of many relics. You will see the particularly revered icon of the Savior. As well as the Holy Stairs, which pilgrims can only ascend on their knees. This is the same staircase from Pontius Pilate's house in Jerusalem that the Savior ascended and descended four times. It was also brought by Queen Helena.
Baptistery of John the Baptist
In addition, you will explore the octagonal building, which became the prototype of all baptisteries - the octagon symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem.
Organizational Details
Additional expenses: tickets to the kiosk (inner courtyard) and museum of the Basilica of St. John, as well as a visit to the chapel with the Holy Stairs.
