• St. Peter’s Basilica - For visitors to Vatican City, all Roman Catholic holidays take on greater significance since they are celebrated in the Holy See and often include a sermon by the sitting Pope himself. But the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God on Jan. 1 is especially looked forward to each year.This holy day is devoted to remembering the motherhood of Mary in relation to Jesus. There are many other feast days dedicated to Mary as well, so the day is not just a general celebration of Mary but something more specific. Mary was merely recognised as the “bearer of God,” meaning that she was the vehicle through whom the Eternal Son entered the world clothed in human flesh.While most focus on New Year’s celebrations around the world, in The Vatican, 1 Jan. is the occasion for a very special Papal Mass in Saint Peter’s Basilica. The Pope gives a sermon on the meaning and significance of the Marian title “Mother of God” according to the faith of the Roman Catholic Church.

• Private English-speaking tour escort
• Luxury transportation with private chauffeur for pick-up and drop-off
• Admission tickets for St. Peter’s Basilica included (free)

• Gratuities (optional)
• Food and beverages

When venturing to Vatican City, all Roman Catholic events hold an amplified sanctity as the Holy See is where they are held, often accompanied by a discourse from the reigning Pope. However, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God on the 1st of January, is particularly anticipated each year. This sacred event is centered on honoring the maternal bond of Mary to Jesus. The day isn’t merely a general commemoration of Mary, rather it celebrates a more narrowed aspect. Mary was only acknowledged as the ‘bearer of God’, signifying she was the conduit through which the Everlasting Son manifested into the world in a human form. While the majority concentrate on ushering in the New Year, the Vatican observes this day as a moment for a distinctive Papal Mass in Saint Peter’s Basilica. The Pope enlightens us of the importance and impact of the Marian title ‘Mother of God’ based on the doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church.

• Child rate applies only when shared with 2 paying adults
• This is a package service. Tickets are not available apart from the service
• Security checks (like airport) is obligatory for everyone entering Vatican City
• Wheelchair available on request. Please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.