Uncover the hidden secrets of St. Clement’s Basilica on an underground tour. Discover ancient frescoes, pagan cults, and early-Christian legends in this mystical experience near the Colosseum.
- Touriks - This is your meeting point. Here you will check in, have a seat if you prefer, benefit WiFi internet access and use the toilet.
Here you will meet your guide and head towards Rome’s best-kept secret, St Clement’s Basilica. Get ready to go back in time down to the deepest point 14 meters underground, then gradually explore the different layers of earth and history as you climb back up to the surface
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Basilica of San Clemente - Discover the best-preserved Mithraic temple of the city 14 meters underground. Find out about the pagan cult of Ancient Romans before Christianity and be intrigued by its sectarian and esoteric side.
Learn about the early-Christian persecutions and martyrs and hear the legend of St. Clement whilst standing in the 1st Century structure that was once his home. Feel the eerie atmosphere and touch the waters of an underground river.
Then, journey higher into the remains of the 4th Century Underground Basilica, built on top of the martyr’s house and below the actual one. Walk along its imposing walls and be fascinated by the ancient frescoes while learning about the scenes and the lives of the martyrs they portray.
Go further up and end your tour in the beautiful 12th-century Basilica at ground level. Marvel at the stunning golden mosaic in the apse and learn about the hidden symbolism in it.
- Sterilized headsets for clear guide audio
- Hand-sanitizing gel available throughout the tour
- Complimentary luggage storage at the office during the tour
- One mask provided per guest if needed
- All fees and taxes included
- Complete on-site assistance provided
Embark on an unexpected experience a stone’s throw from the Colosseum: venture 14 meters below St Clement’s Basilica and immerse yourself into a mystical world of forgotten pagan cults and early-Christian legends and frescoes. Live the excitement of gradually exploring the different structures built on top of each other during the centuries on your way up to the surface. Cross three layers of history and earth with a small group of a maximum of 16 participants. Touch the waters of an underground river.
- Please be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the tour starts
- An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered
- This tour is subject to weather conditions and/or liturgic-calendar events. If canceled you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
- This tour will have a maximum of 16 participants
- Not recommended for customers with claustrophobia
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
