Rome’s churches are among the most beautiful and ancient in the Western world and today you can spend the afternoon discovering some of them. Accompanied by our professional guide, enjoy a journey through the Basilicas, Catacombs, and ancient streets of Rome. Visit Saint Mary Major, a stunning ancient basilica built on the summit of Esquiline Hill, and the Basilica of St. John in Lateran, which is the oldest basilica and the Cathedral of Rome. Nearby, you'll see the Holy Staircase (outside visit) with its white marble steps encased in wooden ones. According to Catholic tradition, they formed the staircase leading up to the praetorium of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem on which Jesus stepped during his Passion. Finally, the Catacombs of St. Callixtus deserve a visit. Located outside the city walls and carved through soft volcanic rock, these underground burial places are the final resting place of more than fifty martyrs and early Popes. Your tour ends after approximately 3 hours in front of Santa Maria Degli Angeli e Martiri.