Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome

Absolutely loved it! As a Muslim I had no issues entering and exploring almost every part of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. I went with my wife and child (5 months). It was free and fairly easy to get around although you will have to carry the pushchair up a few steps to get in and also to gain access to some of the places inside. Nevertheless, we managed! It is a calm, peaceful place of prayer. I stood in awe of the artwork and the architecture- breathtaking! There are priests in prayer and ceremonies which I have never witnessed before. It has opened my mind so much more about faith from the view of Catholicism. I would highly recommend a visit (stop 2 of the hop-on, hop-off bus), there are no restrictions to gender, ethnicity or religion for that matter. Thank you for opening your doors to us. Let us learn and appreciate differences- respecting each others beliefs always. A very educational experience indeed. It was fairly hot due to the summer heat. There is no AC so children, particularly, can get frustrated. Please bare this in mind. Hope you enjoy as much as us! Will be sharing what I learnt on my YouTube channel soon if anybody is interested.

Very nice Basilica plus no charge to enter. Beautiful paintings and marvellous design whether it’s the roof or walls. As this was close to where I stayed so just went over but found it very relaxing and beautiful.