Eyes of Rome
Eyes of Rome

Roman Christian Mosaics Tour

Embark on a journey through the history of Christianity by studying some of the earliest mosaics in Rome

Focus

  • Art
  • Religion
  • History

What makes this tour Special

Enjoy a focused tour on the truly unique and highly specialized art technique of mosaic, which has in Rome many brilliant examples

Follow in the footsteps of the Christian tradition and visit the Major churches from the Byzantine era and the early Christian communities

Visit great spots out of the beaten path and experience an unusual look at their golden treasures

What to Expect

PRIVATE TOUR

Enjoy your tour with your own private tour expert at your party's disposal only

DURATION

3.5 hours

START TIME

09:30 - 14:30

TRANSFER

Meet&Greet at your hotel/accomodation. Transfer to the tour site included

NOT AVAILABLE

Sunday

KID FRIENDLY

This tour is suitable for kids of all ages

GENERIC INFORMATION

Please be aware that the access to holy sites requires a strict dress code. Three churches are part of the itinerary. Shoulders and knees have to be properly covered.

What's Included
  • Blue Badge certified private tour guide
  • Reservation fees
  • One Way Transfer from your hotel/accomodation to the tour site
Not Included/ Optional Extras
  • Drop Off back to your hotel/accomodation after the tour (available upon request)
  • Gratuities
  • Extras

Sites you’ll visit

  • Santa Prassede
  • Santa Maria Maggiore
  • Santa Pudenziana
  • One of the oldest churches in central Rome and home to many mesmerizing mosaics dating all the way back to the IX century AD.The mosaics can be found not only in the small Chapel of Saint Zenone within the church but also along the main apse and behind the altar. Moreover visiting the Basilica of Santa Prassede gives you the opportunity to see relics, getting in touch with the sad story of Prassede, a Christian martyr.
  • One of only 4 Major Basilicas of Rome and the largest dedicated to Saint Mary was built between 422-432 under the instruction of Pope Celestine the first. The mesmerizing mosaics covering the triumphal arch and nave gave a model for future representations of the Virgin Mary.
  • This not so famous church is actually recognized as the oldest place in Rome for Christian worship. There is visible facts that date back to the reign of Emperor Hadrian (117–138) and is home to outstanding late Roman art work in the form of mosaics on the church apse that have been deemed the most beautiful mosaics in Rome.

Tour description

Embark on a journey through the history of Christianity by studying some of the earliest mosaics in Rome. Accompanied by an expert English speaking guide you will explore some important churches and other lesser known gems that house ancient masterpieces.


Indeed, the first Christian churches were decorated with stunning mosaics: small pieces of marble, glass and colored stones were combined and blended with gold foils to make a decorative work. Set off from the Oppian Hill and walk down Via Labicana: Enjoy a stunning view of the Colosseum and walk by the remains of Emperor Nero's Domus Area.

Stop at Santa Prassede Church that houses the San Zeno Chapel, adorned with impressive Byzantine mosaics. Then reach Santa Maria Maggiore, but before entering the Basilica admire wonderful mosaics by Filippo Turati located in the square. Inside you will see mosaics from the 5th century featuring scenes from the Old Testament and the Nativity. Stroll thorough Via Urbana in the heart of the Monti quarter where you will finally visit the Church of Santa Pudenziana in which you will find the most ancient mosaics in Rome.

Useful information

  • Appropriate clothing is highly recommended. Please be aware that the access to holy sites requires a strict dress code. Three churches are part of the itinerary. Shoulders and knees have to be properly covered.
  • Some sites included on this tour have a partial access for wheelchair users.

Full Refund Cancellation Policy

Eyes of Rome has two policies with full refund terms.
The policies are included and non-optional.
  1. Dolce Vita policy is applied on all Standard Bookings placed more than 72 hours from the date of the event. We provide all our customers with Refundable Terms up to 72 hours from the date of the event for any reason. To apply for a refund including where your tour is cancelled or changed by Eyes of Rome®, please contact our customer service team at info@eyesofrome.com.
  2. Peace of Mind policy is applied on Selected Bookings and on all Bookings placed within 72 hours from the date of the event. We provide all our customers with Refundable Terms so if you are unable to attend your booking due to unforeseen circumstances outside of your control you may be entitled to a refund - please see our full set of Refundable Terms and Conditions here. To apply for a refund, please find the instructions on how to apply in the booking confirmation email you received after payment.

Enhance your Experience

Don't know where to start? Find the best tour for you here!