Renaissance Courtesans: Scandalous History Tour

Uncover the captivating lives of powerful courtesans and mistresses in Renaissance Rome. Explore the history of women in Europe, their struggles, and triumphs in a tour that reveals the politics, religion, and society of 16th and 17th century Italy.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Basilica San Marco Evangelista - The tour begins with a massive statue that in 1477 was named after a famous Courtesan. The statue nowadays is indeed known as “Lady Lucrezia”. This XV century woman who lived an incredibly colorful life, is the first story of this storytelling tour
What's Included
  • A knowledgeable local guide
  • Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Entry to all mentioned landmarks
  • Traditional lunch included
  • Comfortable air-conditioned transportation
  • Small group experience
  • Free bottled water throughout the tour
  • Exclusive access to certain areas
  • Souvenir shop visit (optional)
What's Not Included
  • Snacks
Additional Information

Welcome to the most intriguing, jaw-dropping, and utterly captivating walking tour you never knew you needed! Forget the dry history lectures—this is a tour about the women who made Renaissance Italy come alive.
Explore the world of Renaissance courtesans, remarkable women who played a pivotal role in the politics of Renaissance Europe. Consider them as…

Location
Basilica of St Mark Evangelist at Campidoglio
Piazza di San Marco
The meeting point for this tour is adjacent to Piazza Venezia. In this piazza, you will see Rome's biggest monument. The locals call it the "Wedding Cake Monument," although its proper name is the "Victorian." Facing it, you will find our meeting point, Basilica San Marco, on your right.
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
5.0
(62 Ratings)
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Michelle_e
Nov 7, 2025
Massimo Brings History Alive - Massimo uses knowledge and humor to share what life was like for women. This was an enjoyable way to learn about aspects of economic reality of the time while seeing sights often overlooked by tourists,
Review provided by Viator
Reem_a
Nov 7, 2025
A must!! - This experience is one of my core memory tours. It was equally in depth, but not too overbearing. Massimo is really good about laying out the dates and history in a way that really stuck in my mind. I found myself shocked i hadnt known about it sooner. Do it solo, do it with your companions that love art/history. Do it because the background of so much history you witness in Rome, depends on the women that were never acknowledged.
Review provided by Viator
857maimounab
Oct 31, 2025
Cultural. - Thanks again for it's amazing discoveries first time it was unforgettable very playful also! Top!!!!!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
W6194vymirkoc
Oct 27, 2025
This tour is a must - The tour offers a captivating exploration of Rome’s rich history through the lives of influential women. The guide, Massimo, is renowned for his dynamic narrative, bringing historical figures to life with enthusiasm and depth. His stories turn historical facts into vivid stories that resonate with visitors. The tour includes visits to important sites, and these sites provide a tangible link to the past and provide insight into the lives of the women featured during the visit. Unique and rewarding experience!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Excursion13094426340
Oct 26, 2025
Great tour and guide ! - The tour offers a captivating exploration of Rome's rich history through the lives of influential women. This engaging walking tour delves into the stories of courtesans, mistresses, and noblewomen who played pivotal roles in shaping the Renaissance era. The guide, Massimo, is renowned for his dynamic storytelling, bringing historical figures to life with enthusiasm and depth. His narratives transform historical facts into vivid tales that resonate with visitors. Tripadvisor The tour includes visits to significant locations, and these sites provide a tangible connection to the past and offer insights into the lives of the women featured in the tour. This is a unique perspective: Focusing on the women who influenced art, politics, and society during the Renaissance, the tour provides a refreshing perspective often overlooked in traditional historical narratives. This tour is a must for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in uncovering the untold stories of Rome's past. With its engaging storytelling and insightful exploration of lesser-known histories, it offers a unique and enriching experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Pirjo
Sep 25, 2025
Suberb storytelling - We had an awesam art and history tour with Massimo. His deep knowledge of the subject is combined with passion and humour, so the lifestories of The Renaissance Scarlet Ladies came near to us, too. We have allready booked a new tour with Massimo (and Julius Caesar:) when returning to Rome.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Nico187371
Aug 6, 2025
Great experience - We had a great time with Massimo. The tour was great, if you want to do something different. See the city with another eyes and understand the life of real people of the past. Highly recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Margo25
Jul 19, 2025
- What an amazing tour! Massimo is one of the best guide we ever had -and we've been to Rome a few times before! He is really knowledgeable, talented and entertaining ! I was with my 18 years old daughter on this tour, and a little afraid that she won't like it -the truth is, she loved it and she enjoyed it so much-it turned out to be, one of her best memories on this trip! His stories were fascinating, and exceeded our expectations! I highly recommend this tour! Thank you Massimo
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Louisecg1399fu
Jun 14, 2025
Take the tour!! - Massimo vividly brought to life the successes and hardships of these significant women through his story telling. Buildings, emblems, back streets, churches, bakeries, books and paintings and walks off the beaten track were explored and explained. Highly recommend! ☘️
Review provided by Tripadvisor
D7825resarahe
Nov 17, 2025
Ignored by male staff who served at least 5 of their mates dome of whom barged me out of way - Just awful misogynestic pub where male pals are served in front od solo female .. So rude... A pub for overweight middle age male ale drinkers..
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $45
up to 10 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).