Vittoriano and Santa Maria in Ara Coeli Tour

Visit the most important and magnificent building of Modern Rome and one of the most precious churches in the city

Tour Features

Local Guide

Certified Official Guide

Tour Languages

English, Italian, Spanish, French, German

Duration

1 hour and 30 minutes

Tour Size Options

Private

Itinerary

Piazza Venezia is a prominent square in the heart of Rome, located at the junction of several major roads, including Via del Corso and Via dei Fori Imperiali. The square is best known for the massive Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II, or Vittoriano, a monument dedicated to Italy’s first king, Victor Emmanuel II, and symbolizing the unification of Italy. This striking white marble structure dominates the square and offers sweeping views of the city. Piazza Venezia is also a significant historical hub, with nearby landmarks like the Capitoline Hill and Roman Forum easily accessible from here.
Santa Maria in Ara Coeli is a historic church located on the Capitoline Hill in Rome. It is famous for its impressive façade, which blends medieval and Renaissance architectural styles, and its location on the site of an ancient altar dedicated to Juno. The church's name, "Ara Coeli," refers to the "Altar of Heaven" and is linked to the legend that the Virgin Mary appeared here in the 6th century. Inside, visitors can admire significant works of art, including frescoes by Giovanni da San Giovanni and sculptures by Antonio Ghetti.
Capitoline Hill is one of the seven hills of ancient Rome and holds immense historical and cultural significance. It was the center of political and religious life in ancient Rome, housing key structures such as the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus, dedicated to the king of the gods. Today, the hill is home to the Capitoline Museums, which house a vast collection of classical art, sculptures, and artifacts, including the famous Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius and the iconic She-wolf of Rome, symbolizing the legendary founding of the city.

Tour Details

Full Description

Every visitor to Rome sees the Vittoriano, uses it as a landmark, and snaps countless pictures, yet few truly understand its significance. On this exclusive 1.5-hour tour, led by a top-rated local guide, you’ll uncover the art, history, and fascinating stories behind one of Rome's most iconic monuments.

The Vittoriano was constructed after the unification of Italy in 1911, as a tribute to King Victor Emmanuel II and the country's values and territories. Its imposing horse statue is the largest of its kind in the world. You will ascend the monument to a terrace offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the Eternal City, providing the perfect opportunity to appreciate Rome's beauty from above.

Just a few steps away, you’ll visit the church of Santa Maria in Ara Coeli, a beloved site where many Italian celebrities have wed, and still the top choice for Roman couples. This stunning Franciscan temple houses notable masterpieces and has a deep cultural significance. The tour concludes at Capitol Hill, where you’ll admire Michelangelo’s Piazza, original Roman milestones, the Marcus Aurelius statue, the Gemini sculptures, the Town Hall, and other masterpieces, making for an unforgettable experience.