Call Today: 801-683-0123
Call Today: 801-683-0123
October 15th – 26th, 2026
Guided by Dr Mike Day
Mike Day grew up in Modesto, California. After his mission in Chicago, he met his wife, Sonia, at Weber State University. Their familiy has grown to include four sons, their wonderful wives, and treasured grandchildren.
Mike co-hosts the podcast Talking Scripture, and makes regular appearances on the Stick of Joseph channel as well. Mike firmly believes that the Book of Mormon is exactly what it claims to be. He has a deep appreciation for the complexities of the Bible and finds great fulfillment in exploring its original languages and ancient cultural contexts with others.
Mike is passionate about teaching scripture and has been an instructor for Seminaries and Institutes of Regligion since 1993. He has a Ph.D. from the University of Utah in World Languages and Cultures, Comparative Literary and Cultural Studies, with an emphasis on Classical Greek and Biblical Hebrew.
Mike has led tours to LDS Church History Sites, the Holy Land, Italy, and Greece, with an upcoming tour to Turkey in June 2026.
Tour Summary
As we explore iconic cities like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Assisi, we will experience the cultural and architectural beauty that arose from centuries of deep religious devotion. But more importantly, we trace the story of the early Christian Church: how it spread, how it changed, and how it ultimately lost the fulness of the gospel through what we understand as the Great Apostasy.
This tour invites reflection on the faith that built these masterpieces, the truths that were preserved, and the doctrines that were lost. It is a powerful backdrop for understanding the need for a Restoration, and a moving way to deepen your own testimony of the gospel.
Tour Includes
Separate Costs
Itinerary
Day 1 – Oct 15th
Depart from home and begin your travels to the land of art, faith, and of course: Pasta!
Group Flight Option from SLC: If you would like to join the group flight, please indicate such on your reservation form.
The price of this flight is $1,543.53 per person, plus a $25 booking fee.
OUTBOUND: October 15th & 16th, 2026
DL 220 SLC to CDG 3:30pm – 9:30am (Oct 16th), AF 1726 CDG to VCE 11:35am – 1:20pm
RETURN: October 26th, 2026
DL 183 FCO to JFK 11:45am – 4:50pm, DL 863 JFK – SLC 6:40pm – 10:11pm
Day 2 – Oct 16th
Arrival in Venice. Spend some time exploring the old twisted allies and canals that make Venice so magical!
Visit Rialto Bridge or the iconic St Mark’s Square. For those who love music, we suggest attending a local Venetian Opera performance or concert in town.
Meals Included: None
Overnight: Santa Marina Hotel, Venice
Day 3 – Oct 17th
Today we will have the opportunity to explore the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica as a group. Following our morning tour, guests will have the rest of the day at leisure to shop, explore and enjoy the city.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Santa Marina Hotel, Venice
Early Settlement
Venice was founded around the 5th-6th century by refugees fleeing the collapse of the Western Roman Empire and invasions by tribes such as the Huns and Lombards. Settlers sought safety on the small islands and marshy areas of the Venetian Lagoon, which were largely inaccessible to armies and offered natural protection.
The city’s name comes from the Veneti, an ancient people who inhabited the region during Roman times.
How Venice Was Built
To construct a city on the lagoon’s marshy islands, Venetians drove wooden piles deep into the mud and sand to create stable foundations. On top of these piles, platforms of brick and Istrain limestone were laid to support homes, palaces, and churches. Instead of traditional streets, Venice was designed with canals that served as roads, making the city uniquely adapted to water-based transportation.
Growth and Influence
Venice’s strategic location made it a major center for trade, especially in salt, spices, and textiles between Europe and the East. Its republican government, led by an elected Doge, provided political stability that supported economic expansion.
Wealth from commerce funded remarkable architecture, art, and public works, helping Venice become one of Europe’s most influential and beautiful cities by the Renaissance.
Entrance to this site is included.
What is a Doge?
The Doge of Venice was the elected head of the Venetian Republic, serving for life as its ceremonial and symbolic leader. Ovver time, the role became largely figurehead, with real power held by councils like the Great and Minor councils. The Doge’s actions were limited by the Promissione Ducale, an oath outlining duties and restrictions.
Doges were chosen through a complex, multi-stage election designed to prevent dominance by any single family. The office lasted almost 1000 years, until 1791 when Napoleon conquered Venice.
A Brief History of the Doge’s Palace
The origins of the Doge’s Palace trace back to the 9th century, with significant reconstruction ocurring between 1309 and 1424. Serving as the residence of the Doge and the administrative heart of the Venetian Republic, it housed the government, judiciary, and archives.
Notable Features
St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice was originally built in 828 Ad to house the relics of St. Mark the Evangelist, brought from Alexandria by Venetian merchants. Over the centuries, the church was rebuilt and expanded, with the current structure largely completed in the 11th century.
Serving as the private chapel of the Doge of Venice, the basilica became a symbol of Venice’s political power, religious devotion, and extensive trade connections across the Mediterranean.
Prominent Features
Golden Mosaics: The interior is famous for its extensive mosaics made of gold tesserae, depicting biblical scenes and Venetian history.
Pala d’Oro: A stunning altarpiece covered in gold and precious gems, dating from the 10th century, showcasing Byzantine craftsmanship.
Domes and Facade: Five grand domes crown the basilica, and the facade is adorned with sculptures, spolia (columns and reliefs brought from the East), and intricate arches.
Horses of St. Mark: Originally brought from Constantinople in 1204 during the Fourth Crusade, these bronze horses stand above the entrance and are a symbol of Venice’s power.
With a free afternoon in Venice there are plenty of things to see. Below are some suggestions of how to use your time:
Day 4 – Oct 18th
Say goodbye to Venice as we make our way to Ravenna (3hrs by bus). Upon arrival in the city we will enjoy an afternoon guided tour of some very important sites to the LDS Christian perspective.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight: Hotel NH, Ravenna
Originally a small Etruscan settlement, Ravenna became a Roman port city known as Classis, serving as the naval base for the Roman fleet in the Adriatic. In the 5th century, Ravenna gained prominence as the capital of the Western Roman Empire under Emperor Honorius.
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Ravenna became the center of the Ostrogothic Kingdom and later came under Byzantine control. During this period, many of the city’s stunning mosaics and churches were constructed.
Ravenna eventually became part of the Papal States in the 8th century and later joined unified Italy in the 19th century.
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
Built in the 6th century under the Ostrogoths, this church was originally built for Arian purposes. After the Byzantine conquest of Ravenna in 540 Ad, it was converted to a Catholic church, and its dedication changed to Saint Apollinaris, the first bishop of Ravenna.
Notable Features
Hugh Nibley’s Perspective
In his examination of ancient garments depicted in mosaics, Nibley highlighted the significance of gammadia, L-Shaped markings found on textiles from various ancient sites, including Ravenna. He noted that these markings were not merely decorative, but likely held ritualistic or sacral significance, possibly associated with temple veils or altar cloths.
This interpretation suggests that the garments worn by figures in the mosaics of this chapel were imbued with deeper spiritual meaning, reflecting the sacredness of the depicted scenes.
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Neonian Baptistery is one of the oldest monuments in Ravenna, dating to the late 4th or early 5th century, during the episcopate of Bishop Neon—hence its name. It was built to serve as the city’s main baptismal church, originally for adult baptisms by immersion, reflecting early Christian ritual practices.
The baptistery has survived largely intact, making it a key example of early Christian architecture in Italy and one of the most important landmarks in Ravenna’s UNESCO World Heritage ensemble.
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia was built in the early 5th century (around 425–450 AD) in Ravenna. Though traditionally associated with Galla Placidia, daughter of Roman Emperor Theodosius I, it was likely constructed as a family chapel rather than her personal tomb.
Galla Placidia, who ruled as regent of the Western Roman Empire, played a key role in Ravenna’s prominence as a political and religious center during this period. The mausoleum is one of the best-preserved examples of early Christian architecture and art in the Western Roman Empire.
Notable Features
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
Constructed in 526-547 under the Ostrogothic King Theodoric the Great and finished under Emperor Justinian I of the Byzantine Empire. Unlike typical basilicas, San Vitale combines a central octagonal plan with a surrounding abmulatory, reflecting the Eastern influence brought to Ravenna by the Byzantines. The church is dedicated to Saint Vitalis, a Christian martyr of the 2nd century.
Notable Features
Mosaics: The church is world-famous for its extravagant mosaics, particularly the panels depicting Emperor Justinian I and Empress Theodora with their attendants, representing the divine authority of the Byzantine rulers.
There are a variety of mosaics depicting Jesus Christ, his apostles, Melchizedek, Abraham, and many other notable biblical stories and figures.
Hugh Nibley’s Perspective
In addition to the similar garment markings here as the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare, Hugh Nibley explored the symbolism of the Seal of Melchizedek, a motif found in the mosaics of this basilica. He proposed that this symbol represented a connection between the earthly realm and the divine, aligning with themes of priesthood and sacred authority.
Such interpretations underscore the basilica’s role as a conduit for conveying profound theological concepts through art and architecture.
Day 5 – Oct 19th
Today we make our way to the infamous city of Florence (3 hrs by bus). Upon our arrival in the afternoon we will have a walking tour of the city.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel Villa Royal, Florence
A Brief History
Florence, the capital of Tuscany, began as a Roman military colony in 59 BC and rose to prominence in the Middle Ages through its booming textile trade and innovative banking system. By the 13th century, the city’s gold florin had become the standard currency of Europe, solidifying its reputation as a financial powerhouse.
Florence reached its height under the Medici family, powerful rulers and patrons who transformed the city into the birthplace of the Renaissance. Their support of artists, scientists, and thinkers drew figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Galileo, and Dante Alighieri, whose works reshaped art, science, and literature.
The city’s skyline was forever changed by Brunelleschi’s revolutionary dome atop the Duomo, a marvel of engineering that still inspires awe.
Yet Florence was not without turmoil: political rivalries such as those between the Geulphs and Ghibellines and firery episodes like Savonarola’s Bonfire of the Vanities left dramatic marks on its history.
Out of this mix of wealth, creativity, and conflict emerged a city whose contributions, from Michelangelo’s David to Dante’s Divine Comedy, defined the Renaissance and helped shape the course of Western civilization.
No entrance required.
A Brief History
This site has been Florence’s political heart since the Middle Ages. Built in the late 13th century, it became the stage for civic life, public gatherings, and major political events.
Dominating the square is the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall, which served as the seat of government and later the residence of the Medici. The piazza was also the site of rallies, executions, and proclamations, making it the symbolic center of Florentine power.
Notable Features
Interesting Facts
No entrance required.
A Brief History
Literally translated as “Old Bridge,” Ponte Vecchio is one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks and the oldest surviving bridge in the city. First built in Roman times, it has been rebuilt several times due to flooding, with its current form dating back to 1345.
Its distinctive design: with shops built directly along its span, made it both a funcational crossing of the Arno River and a bustling commercial hub.
Notable Features
Interesting Facts
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
Basilica of the Holy Cross is the principal Franciscan church in Florence and one of the city’s greatest treasures. Construction began in 1294, traditionally attributed to Arnolfo di Cambio, and it was consecrated in 1442.
Built on the site of an earlier Franciscan oratory, Santa Croce became a spiritual center for the Franciscan order, emphasizing humility and devotion. Its vast Gothic interior reflects the growing power and influence of the Franscicans in medieval Florence.
Notable Features
Interesting Facts
Day 6 – Oct 20th
This morning we will take an excursion out to the infamous city of Pisa. There we will enjoy a guided walking tour of the Pisa complex and city. After our tour, guests will have the opportunity to grab lunch, explore, and shop before returning to Florence.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel Villa Royal, Florence
A Brief History
Pisa began as an Etruscan settlement before becoming an important Roman port city thanks to its strategic location near the mouth of the Arno River. By the 11th and 12th centuries, Pisa rose to prominence as a maritime republic, rivaling Venice and Genoa with its powerful navy and overseas trade networks.
Its wealth funded the construction of the city’s iconic monuments, most famously, the Piazza del Miracoli (Square of Miracles). Pisa’s power eventually declined after a series of defeats, particularly at the hands of Genoa in the Battle of Meloria (1284), and the silting of its port futher weakened the city. By the early 15th century, Pisa had fallen under Florentine control.
Galileo Galilei
Born in Pisa in 1564, Galileo is one of the city’s most famous sons. He studied at the University of Pisa, where he first challenged traditional Aristotelian views of physics.
According to legend, it was from the Leaning Tower that Galileo dropped two spheres of different weights to demonstrate that objects fall at the same rate regardless of mass – an experiment that defied centuries of accepted thought.
He also taught mathematics at the university for several years, though his unorthodox ideas often clashed with conservative professors. The Baptistry’s remarkable acoustics are also linked to Galileo: stories suggest he studied resonance and harmonics there.
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Bapistry of St. John is the largest in Italy. In 1152 construction began to replace an earlier structure. Originally it was designed by Diotisalvi, a Pisan architect, but later architects, inlcuding Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, added Gothic elements in the 13th and 14th centuries.
Dedicated to St. John the Baptisty, it served as the sacred space where all Pisans were baptized, marking their entrance into the Christian community. Its construction stretched across the centuries, blending Romanesque soliditiy with Gothic ornamentation.
Notable Features
Interesting Facts
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Duomo was begun in 1064, a time when Pisa was a powerful maritime republic. It was designed by Buscheto, blending classical, Islamic, Byzantine, and early Romanesque influences – reflecting the cosmopolitan spirit of a city engaged in Mediterranean trade.
Notable Features
Interesting Facts
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the bell tower of the Pisa Cathedral. Construction began in 1173 and continued over nearly 200 years due to interruptions from wars, debt, and engineering challenges.
Almost immediately after construction began, the tower started leaning because of unstable, sandy soil and a shallow foundation. Despite this, builders continued in stages, attempting to compensate for the tilt, giving the tower its famous curved shape.
Notable Features
The following are suggestions for how to spend your free time in Pisa:
Day 7 – Oct 21st
We continue our exploration of Florence today, with a morning guided tour. The afternoon will be yours at leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel Villa Royal, Florence
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Accademia Gallery was founded in 1784 by Grand Duke Peter Leopold of Lorraine as part of the Academy of Fine Arts. Its original purpose was to serve as a teaching space for art students, giving them direct access to great works of art for study. Over time, it became one of the most important art museums in Florence.
Its most famous treasure is Michelangelo’s David, moved there in 1873 from Piazza della Signoria to protect it from weathering and political unrest. The gallery also houses other Michelangelo works, including the Prisoners (Slaves) and the unfinished St. Matthew, which give incredible insight into his working process.
Beyond Michelangelo, the Accademia holds a rich collection of Florentine Gothic and Renaissance paintings, including altarpieces, religious panels, and a unique section of historic musical instruments once owned by the Medici family.
Entrance to the Dome is included.
A Brief Summary
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence was begun in 1296, but by the early 14oos, its vast central crossing still had no roof. The planned dome was so large (nearly 150 feet across) that no one knew how to build it without the dome collapsing under its own weight. Enter Filippo Brunelleschi, a goldsmith and clockmarker with no formal architectural training, who in 1420 won the competition to design the dome.
Brunelleschi’s solution was revolutionary: he created a double-shell dome supported by a herringbone brick pattern adn horisontal ribs, all built without traditional wooden scaffolding. The dome was completed in 1436, changing the course of architecture forever.
Notable Features
Interesting Facts
The following are some suggestions of how to spend your free afternoon in Florence:
Day 8 – Oct 22nd
Today we depart from Florence and make our way to the charming medieval village of Assisi (3 hrs by bus). On the way we will stop in Siena for lunch, free time, and a visit to the Duomo.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight: BV Grand Hotel, Assisi
A Brief History
Siena, located in the heart of Tuscany, is a medieval city that flourished between the 12th and 15th centuries as a banking and commercial powerhouse, rivaling nearby Florence. Its origins date back to Etruscan and Roman times, but the city truly developed its unique identity in the Middle Ages. Siena’s prosperity was built on trade, wool production, and banking, and it became known for its distinctive Gothic architecture, including the Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) and the Piazza del Campo.
Politically, Siena was a republic, governed by its merchant elite rather than a single ruler, which fostered a strong sense of civic pride and competition. This spirit is still celebrated today in the Palio di Siena, a historic horse race held in the Piazza del Campo. The city is also famous for its artistic heritage, including works by Duccio, Simone Martini, and the Lorenzetti brothers, whose frescoes helped define early Italian painting.
Siena’s historical rivalry with Florence, combined with its economic decline in the late 15th century, preserved much of its medieval charm, making it one of the best-preserved historic cities in Italy and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Siena Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture built between 1196 and the 14th century. It was designed to reflect Siena’s wealth and status as a powerful medieval republic, and its striking black-and-white striped marble façade symbolizes the city’s colors. The cathedral was part of an ambitious plan to expand it into one of the largest churches in Europe, though the expansion was never completed due to the plague of 1348, which devastated the population.
Notable Features
Inside, the Duomo is renowned for its lavish decoration: intricate marble floors with detailed inlays depicting biblical scenes, works by artists like Donatello, Bernini, and Michelangelo, and the stunning Piccolomini Library, adorned with frescoes by Pinturicchio. The cathedral also houses an impressive collection of sculptures, stained glass, and altarpieces that showcase Siena’s artistic prominence during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.
Interesting Fact
Siena’s Duomo was meant to rival the Cathedral of Florence in size and grandeur. The ambitious expansion (the Duomo Nuovo) would have made it larger than Florence’s cathedral, but the plague and economic decline halted construction, leaving Florence as the “winner” in the city rivalry.
The following are some suggestions of what to do with your free time in Siena:
Piazza del Campo – Siena’s famous shell-shaped square, home to the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia. Climb the tower for panoramic city views.
Palazzo Pubblico & Museo Civico – Explore frescoed halls, including the Allegory of Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti.
Basilica of San Domenico – Houses relics of St. Catherine of Siena, including her head and thumb, and features medieval frescoes.
Day 9 – Oct 23rd
Our morning will be spent exploring the influence of St. Francis in Assisi, including his basilica and the medieval charm of the streets. After lunch we will journey towards Rome (3 hrs by bus). Upon arrival we will have an evening walking guide.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight: NH Roma Villa Carpegna, Rome
A Brief History
Assisi, located in Umbria, is best known as the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi (1181/82–1226), one of the most beloved saints in Christian history. Originally a small Umbrian town under Roman rule, it became an important religious center in the Middle Ages. The town’s medieval walls, narrow streets, and hilltop setting reflect its strategic and cultural importance over centuries.
In 1208, St. Francis founded the Franciscan Order, emphasizing poverty, simplicity, and devotion to nature, which transformed Assisi into a major pilgrimage site. His teachings inspired the construction of the Basilica of San Francesco, begun in 1228, which houses his tomb and stunning frescoes by artists like Giotto and Cimabue.
Assisi also became a hub of medieval art and architecture, with Romanesque churches, monasteries, and palaces reflecting both religious devotion and civic pride. Today, the town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its combination of spiritual, artistic, and historical significance.
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Basilica of St. Francis was begun in 1228, just two years after the death of St. Francis of Assisi, to honor the founder of the Franciscan Order. Constructed on the hill where St. Francis had lived and prayed, it was designed to accommodate the many pilgrims who came to venerate him. The basilica is actually a double church, with a Lower Basilica and an Upper Basilica, each richly decorated with frescoes.
The Lower Basilica contains St. Francis’s tomb, where pilgrims can pay homage, and features early 13th-century frescoes attributed to Cimabue, Giotto, and Simone Martini, which were revolutionary in their use of perspective and emotional realism. The Upper Basilica is brighter, with soaring Gothic arches and more fresco cycles by Giotto that narrate the life of St. Francis.
St. Francis
St. Francis of Assisi (1181/82–1226) was born into a wealthy merchant family in Assisi, Italy, but he renounced his wealth in his early twenties to live a life of poverty, simplicity, and devotion to God. He founded the Franciscan Order, emphasizing humility, care for the poor, and a deep reverence for all creation, earning him the title of patron saint of animals and ecology.
A Brief History
Rome, known as the “Eternal City,” has been a major center of history, culture, and religion for over 2,500 years. Founded, according to legend, in 753 BCE by Romulus and Remus, Rome grew from a small settlement on the Tiber River into the capital of the Roman Kingdom, Republic, and Empire, dominating much of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Its monumental architecture, engineering feats, and legal systems laid the foundations of Western civilization.
The city is filled with iconic sites: the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain, which showcase Rome’s evolution from classical antiquity to the Renaissance and Baroque periods. It is also the spiritual heart of Catholicism, housing Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel. Beyond the landmarks, Rome is celebrated for its piazzas, fountains, and vibrant street life, blending ancient history with a modern, bustling city.
Rome’s enduring influence, layered history, and unique combination of art, politics, religion, and everyday life make it one of the most visited and fascinating cities in the world.
A Brief History
The Trevi Fountain was completed in 1762, designed by Nicola Salvi and finished by Giuseppe Pannini after Salvi’s death. It marks the terminal point of the Aqua Virgo, an ancient Roman aqueduct built in 19 BC that supplied water to the city. The fountain is one of the most famous examples of Baroque architecture, combining theatrical design, dramatic sculptures, and cascading water.
Notable Features
Coin Toss Tradition
Legend says that tossing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain ensures a return to Rome. Tossing 2 coins ensures you will find true love, and tossing 3 coins ensures a happy union in marriage. About 3,000 Euros are thrown daily, collected and donated to charity.
A Brief History
The Spanish Steps were built in between 1723 and 1725 to connect the Piazza di Spagna at the base with the Trinita dei Monti church at the top. The project was funded by French diplomat Etienne Gueffier, and the design was chosen through a competition, with Francesco de Sanctis credited as the main architect. The steps quickly became a popular meeting place for both locals and visitors, a social hub in the heart of Rome.
Notable Features
135 Steps: The staircase is famous for its graceful curves, terraces, and symmetry, creating a natural stage for people-watching and events.
Barcaccia Fountain: At the base of the steps is the Fountain of the Ugly Boat (Fontana della Barcaccia), designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and his father Pietro. It commemorates the flood of the Tiber River in 1598, when a boat was left stranded in the square.
Trinità dei Monti Church: At the top, this late Renaissance church overlooks the steps, offering a dramatic backdrop and scenic views of the city.
Fashion & Film Icon: The steps have long been a fashion hotspot, with locals and visitors gathering for photos and style shows. They appear in famous films like “Roman Holiday” (1953), starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck.
Love & Romance: Traditionally, couples meeting or sitting on the steps are said to share a kiss at sunset, making it a romantic spot for visitors.
Springtime Blooms: Every May, the steps are decorated with azaleas, creating a spectacular floral display that attracts photographers and tourists alike.
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved monuments of ancient Rome. Originally built in 27 BCE by Marcus Agrippa, it was rebuilt around 118–128 CE under Emperor Hadrian after the first structure was damaged by fire. Its name, Pantheon, means “all gods,” as it was dedicated to the Roman gods of antiquity. In 609 CE, the building was converted into a Christian church, Santa Maria ad Martyres, which helped ensure its preservation through the centuries.
Notable Features
The Dome: The Pantheon’s massive unreinforced concrete dome remains the largest of its kind in the world, with a diameter equal to the interior height (about 43.3 meters / 142 ft).
Oculus: The central opening at the top of the dome, called the oculus, is the building’s only natural light source and symbolizes the connection between the temple and the heavens.
Portico: The impressive portico of Corinthian columns greets visitors with grandeur, reminiscent of Greek temples.
Tombs: It houses the tombs of notable figures including Raffaello Sanzio (Raphael) and Italian kings such as Victor Emmanuel II.
Perfect Geometry: The interior of the Pantheon is a perfect sphere within a cylinder, showcasing Roman mastery of architecture and engineering.
Rainfall: The oculus lets rain in, but the slightly sloped floor and drainage holes keep the interior dry—a testament to Roman ingenuity.
Influence on Architecture: Its design inspired countless Renaissance and Baroque churches, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Hadrian’s Secret: Hadrian’s name does not appear on the building; instead, the inscription credits Marcus Agrippa, highlighting Roman respect for tradition.
Day 10 – Oct 24th
This morning we will enjoy a tour of the Vatican, including St. Peter’s Basilica and Sistine Chapel. After some time for lunch, we will depart for the Rome, Italy LDS Temple. There, we will have the opportunity to participate in ordinances.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight: NH Roma Villa Carpegna, Rome
A Brief History
Vatican City is the world’s smallest independent state, both by area (0.17 square miles) and population (around 800 people). It became an independent city-state in 1929 under the Lateran Treaty, signed by Benito Mussolini and Pope Pius XI. However, its religious significance dates back centuries: the area around St. Peter’s Basilica has been a pilgrimage site since the 4th century, when Emperor Constantine built the first basilica over the believed burial site of Saint Peter, one of Christ’s apostles.
Interesting Facts
A City-State Within a City: Vatican City is completely surrounded by Rome yet functions as an independent country with its own postal system, newspaper, bank, and even a football team.
Swiss Guard: The Vatican is protected by the Pontifical Swiss Guard, founded in 1506. Their colorful Renaissance uniforms are iconic.
Secret Archives & Gardens: The Vatican holds vast archives dating back centuries, and the Vatican Gardens cover nearly half of the city-state’s area.
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Vatican Museums were founded in 1506 when Pope Julius II acquired the Laocoön and His Sons sculpture, sparking the collection of classical and religious art. Over the centuries, successive popes expanded the collection, turning it into one of the largest and most important art collections in the world. Today, the museums contain thousands of works spanning ancient Egyptian artifacts, classical sculptures, Renaissance masterpieces, and modern religious art.
Notable Features
Raphael Rooms: A suite of rooms decorated by Raphael and his workshop, including the famous School of Athens fresco.
Sistine Chapel: Home to Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes (1508–1512) and The Last Judgment (1536–1541), depicting biblical scenes with astonishing realism.
Gallery of Maps: A 120-meter-long gallery adorned with topographical maps of Italy, painted in the late 16th century.
Pio-Clementine Museum: Houses ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, including the Apollo Belvedere and the Laocoön Group.
Vatican Pinacoteca: A gallery of paintings by Caravaggio, Leonardo da Vinci, Giotto, and Raphael, showcasing centuries of Italian art.
Hidden Passages: The museums contain secret corridors and passages, including the passetto that connects some Vatican buildings.
Collection Growth: Many pieces were acquired through spoliation, donations, or excavations, reflecting the Vatican’s role as a center of religious, political, and cultural power.
Papal Palace: Before it became a museum, the Vatican Museum was once the Palace of the Pope.
A Brief History
The Sistine Chapel, commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV between 1473 and 1481, is one of the most iconic masterpieces of Renaissance art and serves as the Papal Chapel where conclaves and important ceremonies are held. Originally decorated by early Renaissance painters such as Botticelli, Ghirlandaio, and Perugino, the chapel depicts scenes from the lives of Moses and Christ.
Its fame, however, rests primarily on Michelangelo’s ceiling, painted between 1508 and 1512 under Pope Julius II, which illustrates nine central scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the iconic Creation of Adam, surrounded by prophets, sibyls, and ancestors of Christ.
Michelangelo later returned to paint The Last Judgment on the altar wall (1536–1541), depicting the Second Coming of Christ and the dramatic fate of souls, a work that caused controversy for its nudity and bold imagery. The chapel also contains painted architectural details that create the illusion of depth and frame the figures, demonstrating Michelangelo’s genius in both design and storytelling.
Over centuries, the frescoes underwent restoration, revealing their vivid original colors. Stories surrounding the chapel include Michelangelo’s initial reluctance to take on the ceiling commission, his tense relationship with Pope Julius II, and hidden anatomical and symbolic details throughout the works, making the Sistine Chapel not only an artistic treasure but also a site of historical intrigue and spiritual significance.
A Brief History
St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world and one of Christianity’s most important pilgrimage sites. Built over the believed tomb of Saint Peter, one of Jesus’ apostles and the first pope, the original basilica was constructed by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century. The current Renaissance and Baroque structure was begun in 1506 under Pope Julius II and took over a century to complete, with contributions from architectural masters like Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Notable Features
Michelangelo’s Dome: Dominating Rome’s skyline, the dome rises 136 meters (446 ft) and was designed by Michelangelo, who also contributed sculptures and architectural planning.
Baldachin by Bernini: A massive bronze canopy over the main altar, marking the site of Saint Peter’s tomb.
Pietà by Michelangelo: A stunning marble sculpture of Mary holding the body of Christ, located near the entrance.
Colonnades & Piazza: Bernini’s sweeping colonnades frame St. Peter’s Square, designed to welcome visitors in an embrace-like formation.
The Papal Chair: Bernini’s Cathedra Petri symbolizes the continuity of papal authority and was designed to awe visitors with its scale and symbolism.
Miracle Stories: Over centuries, countless miracles have been reported at the site, reinforcing its spiritual significance.
Architectural Feats: Michelangelo designed the dome at age 71, combining structural ingenuity with aesthetic beauty, making it a model for domes worldwide.
The Rome Italy Temple was announced in 2008 by President Monson. In 2019 it was finally dedicated by President Nelson, making it the first temple in Italy. This beautiful structure is accompanied by a visitors center. The first of its kind to have statues of the 12 original Apostles, surrounding the Christus. These statues each demonstrate the method by which the Apostles were martyred for the sake of the gospel.
Guests will need to arrange their own appointments to do ordinance work in the temple. We will give a time for the endowment session that everyone should join, or plan other ordinances around (sealings, initatory, baptisms).
Day 11 – Oct 25th
Today we explore the ancient side of Rome, with visits to the Colosseum, Roman Foram, and Mamertine Prison. After our morning tour, the rest of the day will be free for guests to explore.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
Overnight: NH Roma Villa Carpegna, Rome
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Mamertine Prison (Carcer Tullianum) is an ancient structure in Rome, traditionally thought to date back to the 5th century BCE. It was originally a tufa stone cistern, later converted into a prison used by the Roman Republic and Empire.
Famous historical figures, including Vercingetorix (the Gallic chieftain captured by Julius Caesar), were held here. According to Christian tradition, Saint Peter and Saint Paul were imprisoned in the Mamertine Prison before their executions, making it a site of religious pilgrimage.
Entrance to this site is included.
A Brief History
The Roman Forum (Forum Romanum) was the heart of ancient Rome, serving as the political, religious, and commercial center from around the 7th century BCE through the fall of the Roman Empire. It was the site of senate meetings, public speeches, trials, and religious ceremonies.
Over centuries, the Forum grew with temples, basilicas, arches, and monuments commemorating emperors, victories, and civic life. After the fall of Rome, it fell into ruin and was eventually buried, only to be excavated in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Notable Features
Temples: Includes the Temple of Saturn, Temple of Castor and Pollux, and Temple of Vesta, all central to Roman religious and civic life.
Basilicas: The Basilica Julia and Basilica Aemilia served as public meeting halls and courts.
Triumphal Arches: The Arch of Titus commemorates Rome’s victory over Jerusalem in 70 CE.
Rostra: The speaker’s platform where leaders like Cicero addressed citizens.
Entrance to this site is inlcuded.
A Brief History
The Colosseum (Flavian Amphitheatre) is the largest amphitheater ever built and a symbol of ancient Rome. Construction began under Emperor Vespasian in 70–72 CE and was completed in 80 CE under his son, Titus, with further modifications by Domitian. It was used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, animal hunts, mock sea battles, and executions. With a capacity of 50,000–80,000 spectators, it demonstrated the power and engineering prowess of the Roman Empire.
Notable Features
Elliptical Structure: 189 meters long, 156 meters wide, and 50 meters high, with multiple tiers of seating for different social classes.
Hypogeum: The underground network of tunnels and cages housed animals, gladiators, and stage machinery, allowing dramatic entrances during shows.
Velarium: A retractable awning protected spectators from the sun, showcasing Roman innovation.
Gladiatorial Games: Gladiators often fought to the death, though some were trained professionals with fame and fan followings. Naval battles were sometimes staged by flooding the arena.
Martyr Legends: Some early Christian traditions claim Christians were martyred here, though historians debate the accuracy of this.
Natural Disasters: Earthquakes and stone looting over centuries caused partial collapse, yet much of the structure remains intact.
Symbol of Rome: Today, the Colosseum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most recognized monuments in the world, representing both ancient engineering and Roman culture.
The following are suggestions for how to spend your free time in Rome:
Day 12 – Oct 26th
This morning say farewell to Italy as we transfer to the airport to start our journey home (Rome Airport – FCO).
Meals Included: Breakfast
Payment Terms: $300 pp deposit required at time of booking. Final payment due 90 days before departure.
**this tour is based on a minimum of 20 passengers and a maximum of 35 passengers.
Legacy Tours and Travel reserves the right to make changes to the tour, as needed. Tour itinerary and inclusions are subject to availability.
Legacy Tours are priced to ensure our clients get the most economical price for the tour. In doing so we base our tour price on the value of the US dollar to the Euro when final payment is made. The published price and rate of exchange for the dollar when published is the marker. If the dollar has decreased when the final payment is due, the cost for the tour may be more than the published price. However if the dollar increases in value when your final payment is due, then you will pay less than the price that is published for the tour.
A number of European cities are likely to increase or impose a new tourism tax in the near future. These taxes may be added without warning. These extra taxes may end up being added to the final cost of the tour or it’s possible you will be asked to pay locally on the spot. Barcelona just recently added a city tax that was between 1-3 EU per night. This is just to let you know of this possibility. In any advent you will want to bring some extra Euros to have on hand in case that happens on our tour.
Additional Resources ~
Did Pasta Really Come From Italy? – Enjoy this quick article about the origins of pasta, as well as what makes a truly authentic Italian Pasta Dish… Read More
Leonardo Da Vinci: The #1 Most Famous Painter in the World – Da Vinci did much more than just paint, but with masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper… Read More
Amazing Rome Italy Temple 2020 – This highly anticipated LDS Temple does not disappoint! With an iconic Visitor’s Center, and beautiful Italian design, we absolutely recommend a visit… Read More
