Crucis Catholic Christmas Tour Rome – Rome, Italy

EXPERIENCE:

Take an evening walk with us through the historical centre of Rome at Christmas time where you can combine festive cheer with quiet reflection on what Christmas really means. Learn about the scriptural parallels and the prominence of Bethlehem in the breathtaking mosaics before snuggling up in a nearby cosy pub for a mug of mulled wine to let it all sink in.

We’ll begin our tour at the Basilica of St Mary Major, one of the ‘big four’ Major Papal Basilicas in Rome and, unbeknownst to many, the most Christmassy of all! For located here within the walls of this architectural marvel is wood from the crib of the baby Jesus for all to see, brought back from the Holy Land in the 7th century for safe keeping in the heart of Rome.

The sacred relic of wood from Christ’s crib is but one of the many priceless artefacts brought from Jerusalem that pilgrims to Rome can venerate. While in the basilica, we’ll also view the icon of Salus Populi Romani by St Luke the Evangelist, talk about its fascinating history and of course, see the Holy Door which will open in the Jubileum Year of 2025.

After our exhilarating tour of the basilica you’ll step out into the crisp night air of Rome in December and pop across the road to see our friends at a local Irish pub, where some complimentary mulled wine will be waiting for us to warm our cockles!

That should prepare us for the 20-minute walk through the trendy Monti neighbourhood down to the magnificent thoroughfare that is Va dei Fori Imperiali, where we’ll cast our eyes upon the ruins of ancient Rome from on high, full of its pagan temples and monuments, all in the foreboding shadow of the mighty Colosseum.

Arriving at the pinnacle of the city in Piazza Venezia, we’ll then feast our eyes upon the sight of Rome’s Christmas lights spectacle and 70-foot tree in front of the Vittorio Emanuele II national monument.

Then it’s on through the magical wonderland of Rome’s centro storico to another of her most breathtaking open spaces, Piazza Navona, where the famous Christmas markets will be bristling with activity. Now in the heart of Baroque Rome, your entertaining guide will present the stunning Renaissance art and architecture of this famous piazza.

Here we’ll leave you in the heart of the city to eat, drink and be merry – unless of course, you join us for our Catholic Christmas Tour on Christmas Eve…

On Christmas Eve, this tour will dovetail into our Midnight Mass experience and we’d love you to join us. Your very same Catholic guide will lead the way to Via della Conciliazione, the wide and majestic street that leads up to Piazza San Pietro and St Peter’s Basilica, the gateway to the Vatican City. After a refill of mulled wine we’ll see the exquisite nativity scene there before proceeding with our pre-acquired tickets into the main piazza for the 7.30pm start of Mass.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Traditional Catholic Christmas Tour of Rome
See the relics of the crib of the baby Jesus
Enjoy the vibrant Christmas Markets in Piazza Navona
See Rome’s Christmas light display and giant tree
Stay warm with a fine cup of mulled wine

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