The Berninis at Santa Maria Maggiore: genius between art and faith

On the occasion of the exhibition ‘Bernini and the Barberinis’ (Palazzo Barberini, 12 February – 14 June 2026), Gallerie Nazionali di Arte Antica and Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major are offering visitors a unique opportunity to deepen their knowledge of the genius of the Baroque.

By presenting their ticket for the exhibition ‘Bernini and the Barberini’, visitors will be able to access the Museum Complex of the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore at a promotional rate. In turn, visitors to the Museum Complex of Santa Maria Maggiore will be able to take advantage of a reduced rate for visiting the exhibition at Palazzo Barberini by showing their admission ticket.

In addition, a special guided tour, “The Berninis at Santa Maria Maggiore: genius between art and faith”, has been specially designed inside the Basilica to offer an itinerary dedicated to the extraordinary memories of the life and works of Gian Lorenzo and his family: the Baptistery with its relief of the Assumption of the Virgin, the sculpture of Philip IV, King of Spain;  the famous spiral staircase, ending at the Panoramic Terraces, with a breathtaking view stretching across the rooftops of Rome, from the site of the artist’s first workshop to St. Peter’s Dome.

The synergy between the Galleries and the Basilica represents an extraordinary opportunity to deepen your knowledge of Bernini, allowing you to enjoy an integrated cultural experience between two exceptional museums, both privileged custodians of Baroque history and art in Rome.

The tour takes place every Thursday at 12 am, at a reduced cost for visitors to the “Bernini and the Barberini” exhibition.

Info and bookings: https://www.basilicasantamariamaggiore.va/it/eventi-e-novita/2026/mostra-bernini-e-i-barberini.html