Private Mosaics of Rome Tour

Overview

Beyond Rome’s iconic landmarks lies a world of dazzling, often-overlooked mosaics. Escape the crowds with Through Eternity Tours and journey through the Eternal City’s finest examples of mosaic art—from mysterious early-Christian visions to glittering medieval masterpieces.

Discover the ancient techniques of mosaicists and the influential patrons and artists who shaped these extraordinary works. Join us to explore the intricate beauty and profound symbolism that are woven into Rome’s sacred spaces.

Description

Start at Santi Cosma e Damiano: Visions of the Apocalypse

We begin at Santi Cosma e Damiano, built into the Roman Forum. Once a pagan temple, it became a Christian church in 527 AD. Inside, sixth-century mosaics depict vivid apocalyptic imagery: Christ descending in radiant color, saints in conversation, and Pope Felix presenting the church. You’ll discover a phoenix, palm trees, and intricately portrayed sheep—all rich with meaning.

Walk Through Monti’s History on Via Urbana

From there, we stroll through Monti, one of Rome’s most charming neighborhoods. But beneath its chic exterior lies the gritty past of the Suburra, once a slum of ancient Rome. Our path leads to Santa Pudenziana, one of the oldest churches in the city. Inside, an incredible 5th-century mosaic shows Christ as an emperor, flanked by apostles in Roman togas—marking a profound shift in Rome’s identity from imperial to Christian.

Marvel at Santa Prassede’s Golden Age Mosaics

Under Pope Paschal I, Rome experienced a mosaic revival in the 9th century. At Santa Prassede, Byzantine-inspired mosaics glitter with vibrant color. You’ll meet saints, angels, and the sisters Prassede and Pudenziana, dressed as Byzantine royalty. The stunning Chapel of San Zeno, commissioned by Paschal for his mother, is a hidden gem adorned with golden scenes of Christ and the saints.

Conclude at the Majestic Santa Maria Maggiore

Our final stop is Santa Maria Maggiore, a 5th-century basilica and artistic pilgrimage site. Its nave mosaics depict Old Testament scenes in a classical style—testaments to the skill of Roman artists adapting to new Christian themes. In the apse, Jacopo Torriti’s 13th-century masterpiece crowns the Virgin Mary beside Christ in heavenly glory, revealing how mosaic art evolved across a millennium.

Why Choose Through Eternity Tours?

Led by expert archaeologists and art historians, our tours go deeper. With 25+ years of experience, we bring Rome’s lesser-known treasures to life through engaging storytelling, scholarly insight, and a passion for discovery.

Join us and experience a side of Rome most never see—one glittering mosaic at a time.