The ‘Rome: The Passion of Jesus Private Guided Tour’ offers an immersive 3.5-hour experience exploring the spiritual heart of Rome. Participants can witness relics from the Passion, including the flogging pillar and pieces of the Holy Cross. Led by an expert guide, the tour takes visitors through sacred sites with commentary on their historical and religious significance. Whether you’re a devout Christian or simply curious about Rome’s spiritual heritage, this tour promises an enriching journey into the mysteries of the Passion.
Key Points
- This 3.5-hour guided tour in Rome focuses on the spirituality of Jesus’ Passion, exploring churches with relics from the Passion.
- Participants can see relics such as the flogging pillar, a piece of Jesus’ crib, and the Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs).
- The tour is led by a live guide who provides expert commentary and insights into the historical and spiritual significance of the sites.
- Travelers can skip the line with an express security check and enjoy a private group experience.
- The tour offers a flexible booking policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Overview and Highlights
This private 3.5-hour guided tour focuses on the spirituality of Rome and explores churches linked to the Passion of Jesus, allowing visitors to see relics from the Passion that were brought to the city from the Holy Land.
During the tour, you will skip the line through an express security check and follow a live guide.
The highlights include seeing the relic of the flogging pillar at the Basilica of Santa Prassede, a piece of wood said to come from the crib of Jesus at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, and the Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs) at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
The tour also visits the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem, which houses relics including the panel that hung on Christ’s cross.
Tour Stops
The tour begins at the Basilica of Santa Prassede, where visitors can see the relic of the flogging pillar. Next, it proceeds to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore to view a piece of wood said to come from the crib of Jesus. The tour then moves on to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, home to the Scala Sancta or Holy Stairs. Finally, the tour culminates at the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem, which houses relics including the panel that hung on Christ’s cross, 2 thorns from his crown, and 3 pieces of his cross.
| Tour Stop | Relic |
|---|---|
| Basilica of Santa Prassede | Flogging Pillar |
| Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore | Crib of Jesus |
| Archbasilica of St. John Lateran | Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs) |
| Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem | Cross of Christ, Crown of Thorns |
Tour Experience
A private group experience, the tour guides visitors through Rome’s spirituality, bringing to life the churches and relics linked to the Passion of Jesus.
Travelers are accompanied by a live tour guide who provides expert commentary and insight throughout the 3.5-hour journey. The tour is conducted in English and Italian, ensuring that all guests can fully engage with the content.
With an express security check, the group can skip the line and maximize their time exploring the sacred sites.
Whether you’re a devout Christian or simply fascinated by religious history, this private tour offers an immersive and meaningful experience, connecting you to the powerful story of Jesus’s suffering and sacrifice.
Booking and Cancellation
Travelers can reserve their spot on the private Rome: The Passion of Jesus tour and take advantage of the ‘reserve now & pay later‘ option.
Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for guests’ schedules.
This booking policy makes it easy for participants to secure their spot without the immediate need for payment, and they can rest assured that they can cancel their reservation if unexpected circumstances arise.
The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the tour start time ensures that travelers don’t have to worry about losing their money if their plans change, further enhancing the convenience and accessibility of this unique spiritual journey through Rome.
Basilica of Santa Prassede
One of the first stops on the private Rome: The Passion of Jesus tour is the Basilica of Santa Prassede, where visitors can view a relic believed to be from the flogging pillar of Jesus.
This 9th-century church is known for its striking Byzantine-style mosaics and its connection to the Passion story.
Guests will:
- See the relic housed in a crystal reliquary
- Admire the intricate mosaics decorating the interior
- Learn about the basilica’s history and its role in preserving Passion relics
- Understand the significance of the flogging pillar in the life of Jesus
The visit to the Basilica of Santa Prassede sets the tone for the deeper spiritual exploration of Rome’s churches and relics associated with the Passion narrative.
Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
After visiting the Basilica of Santa Prassede, the private Rome: The Passion of Jesus tour continues at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where guests can view a relic believed to be a piece of wood from the crib of Jesus.
This magnificent 5th-century basilica is one of the four major basilicas of Rome and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The tour guide will explain the significance of this relic and its connection to the Nativity of Christ.
Visitors will have the opportunity to see this sacred object up close and learn about its history and veneration within the Catholic Church.
Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
From the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the tour moves to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, where visitors can view the Scala Sancta, or Holy Stairs, which are said to be the steps that Jesus climbed on his way to trial before Pontius Pilate. The Scala Sancta is a highlight of the tour, as it’s believed to have been brought to Rome from Jerusalem in the 4th century. Visitors are able to climb these stairs on their knees as an act of penance and devotion.
The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is the oldest and most important of the four major basilicas in Rome. It’s the official ecclesiastical seat of the Pope as the Bishop of Rome.
The basilica contains numerous relics and artworks associated with the Passion of Jesus.
Climbing the Scala Sancta is a humbling and powerful experience for many visitors.
Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem
The tour culminates at the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem, which houses an impressive collection of relics associated with the Passion of Jesus.
Visitors will have the chance to see the panel that hung on Christ’s cross, two thorns from his crown, and three pieces of his cross.
These holy artifacts draw pilgrims from around the world who come to venerate them and reflect on the final days of Jesus’s life.
The guide will provide insight into the history and significance of these relics, allowing travelers to appreciate the profound spiritual significance of this sacred site.
It’s a fitting conclusion to a tour focused on the spirituality of Rome and the Passion of Christ.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Participate in This Tour?
Children can participate in this tour, as long as they are accompanied by an adult. The tour content and duration may not be suitable for very young children, so parents’ discretion is advised.
Are Photography and Filming Allowed During the Tour?
Photography and filming are generally allowed during the tour, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific rules or restrictions.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour has a modest dress code. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable, conservative clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. This helps maintain respect for the sacred sites and religious nature of the experience.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Tour Sites?
Visitors can typically purchase souvenirs at the tour sites, though selection and availability may vary. It’s best to check with the tour guide or location staff for specifics on purchasing opportunities during the tour.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a minimum number of participants. It’s a private guided experience, so you can book the tour regardless of group size. The tour operates with a single participant or a larger private group.
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Recap
This private guided tour offers an immersive spiritual experience, exploring Rome’s churches connected to the Passion of Jesus.
Participants can witness historic relics, receive expert commentary, and gain deeper insight into the religious significance of these sacred sites.
With an express security check and a knowledgeable live guide, the 3.5-hour tour provides a convenient and informative way to explore the spirituality of Rome.
