Rome: History of Christianity Tour with Vatican & Catacombs

Your experience

Highlights

• Marvel at the Capuchin Crypts where intricate bone formations are found.
• During your visit, explore Appian Way, an ancient highway that is one of the oldest in the world.
• The ancient Catacombs of Domitilla, a captivating journey through, offers a sacred resting place for early Christians.
• Discover the wonders of the Sistine Chapel, embark on a journey to the Vatican Museums, and explore the majestic St. Peter's Basilica.
• Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide fluent in English, embark on a captivating exploration of Rome's rich history.

Full description

Begin your adventure by immersing yourself in the enigmatic Capuchin Crypts hidden beneath the Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini Church. Be amazed by the bone-chilling catacombs, where an astounding 3,700 Capuchin monks rest in peace, their skeletal remains meticulously arranged to construct elaborate formations. Discover the captivating controversy surrounding these structures, as numerous ones skillfully embody significant aspects of the Christian belief system. Subsequently, embark on an exhilarating journey to Rome's ancient underground maze, the Catacombs of Domitilla. Immerse yourself in a captivating journey beneath the earth's surface, descending an awe-inspiring depth of 50 feet. Traverse through a mesmerizing labyrinth of tunnels that sprawl over a remarkable distance of nearly 10 miles. These sacred corridors were once the final resting place for early Christians, who sought solace and everlasting serenity within their hallowed confines. Begin your expedition along the illustrious Appian Way, a revered path that guided mighty Roman armies in times long past. Uncover the enigmatic secrets of this ancient trail, which was one among the original seven routes leading into the heart of Rome, stretching all the way to present-day Puglia in Brindisi. Prepare to be amazed by the awe-inspiring Aurelian Walls as you leisurely explore them from the comfort of our climate-controlled vehicle. Finish off your day with a trip to the Vatican Museums, conveniently bypassing the long queues with your highly sought-after skip-the-line tickets. Immerse yourself in the captivating Gallery of the Candelabra, the mesmerizing Gallery of Tapestries, and let yourself be enchanted by the splendor of the Gallery of Maps. Begin your journey into the world of Renaissance art by first visiting the Raphael Rooms and Borgia Apartments, where you will discover a splendid collection of paintings and frescoes created by Raphael and his followers. Indulge yourself in the enthralling allure and profound historical importance of these chambers, permitting yourself to acquire a holistic comprehension of the artistic epoch recognized as the Renaissance. As you progress, brace yourself for an inundation of awe-inspiring sensations when you enter the renowned Sistine Chapel, an unparalleled magnum opus brought to existence by the brilliance of Michelangelo and esteemed across ages as one of humanity's utmost artistic triumphs. As you prepare to step into this sacred sanctuary, I invite you to pause and lend an attentive ear to your guide's enchanting narrative. They will paint a vivid portrait of the awe-inspiring wonders that lie before you, a tapestry woven with intricate threads of beauty and splendor. Remember, within these consecrated walls, it is imperative to uphold a reverential hush. Conclude your journey by paying homage to the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica, an architectural marvel that spans the expanse of two colossal American football fields. Within its vast embrace, you will bear witness to the masterpieces crafted by illustrious artists from diverse epochs, manifestations of their unparalleled genius. Escape the hassle of waiting in long lines and instead, indulge in the comfort of a separate entrance that leads you directly to the esteemed Sistine Chapel. This extraordinary privilege grants you an exclusive opportunity to bask in the opulence of this sacred haven. Prepare to be captivated by Michelangelo's awe-inspiring Pietà sculpture and Bernini's magnificent Baldacchino, alongside other breathtaking artistic wonders. By embarking on this all-encompassing excursion, you are guaranteed an indelible experience, one that will fully immerse you in the grandeur of Renaissance art and the resplendence of St. Peter's Basilica. Brace yourself as you enter this realm of brilliance, for a collection of remarkable masterpieces awaits your presence. As you enter this sacred sanctuary, prepare to feast your eyes on a multitude of extraordinary artworks. From the awe-inspiring Baldacchino to the emotional sculpture of La Pietà and the majestic statue of St. Peter, each piece will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Regardless of whether you are well-versed in art history or not, the interior of this hallowed place will undoubtedly fill you with a profound sense of wonder and amazement.

Includes

• Enjoy luxurious privacy with exclusive transportation to and from the Catacombs and Appian Way, for your convenience.
• For transportation to and from the sites, travel arrangements are provided for visiting the Catacombs and Appian Way.
• Explore the depths of history with a skip-the-line tour of the Capuchin Crypts and Catacombs of St. Callixtus, for a truly unique experience that allows you to avoid waiting in line.
• Skip the line and gain instant access to the Vatican.
• Marvel at the exquisite beauty of the Sistine Chapel during a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, where you will have the opportunity to embark and explore the renowned Raphael Rooms.
• Skip the line and enjoy a visit to the renowned St. Peter's Church, experiencing the convenience.
• An English-fluent, exceptionally knowledgeable guide.
• In a group, the maximum number of individuals allowed is limited to 15.

Not includes

• Convenient transportation to and from the hotel is provided.
• Culinary delights and refreshing drinks
• Gratuities

What to bring

• Shoes that provide comfort.
• Jacket

Not allowed

• Shorts
• Nourishment and beverages
• Skirts of a shorter length.
• Shirts without sleeves

Know before you go

• When attempting to enter, individuals may be denied if their knees and shoulders are not covered adequately.
•  To ensure maximum comfort, it is advisable that you wear shoes that maximize the comfort of your feet.
• Children occupying a seat in the vehicle will need to pay the full price.
• Car seats are presently accessible in a wide selection.
• On Sundays, the Vatican and Catacombs' route experience closures along the ancient Via Appia Antica.
•  I regret to inform you with great sincerity that the Domitilla Catacombs will be unavailable for visitation from the middle of December to the middle of January. But fear not! We have devised alternative arrangements for you to partake in the marvels of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus instead.
• If you wish to delve deeper into the wonders of the Vatican Museums, unfortunately, you cannot simply retrace your path from St. Peter's Basilica. To extend your visit to the museums, it is vital that you forgo the guided tour of the basilica. Likewise, if your intention is to prolong your stay in St. Peter's Basilica, it is recommended that you refrain from leaving alongside the guide.