Private Tour at Underground Temples of St. Clement's Basilica
Description
Uncover the secrets of St. Clement's Basilica at your own pace on this private tour. Embark 46 feet (14 meters) below ground to uncover a mystical realm of ancient pagan rituals, early Christian tales, and frescoes. Get lost in the thrill of exploring layers upon layers of history as you return to the surface. Traverse three eras and even touch the sacred waters of an underground river. Join this exclusive journey into the depths of history and wonder. Embark on a tour of the underground temples below St Clement's Basilica Learn about early Christian persecution and the legend of St Clement View the fascinating ancient frescoes adorning the walls of underground temples Touch the water of the underground river beneath St Clement's Basilica
Tour Options
Itinerary
Start your unforgettable journey at the 12th-century Basilica di San Clemente, where your guide will show you the golden mosaic in the apse and reveal its hidden meanings. Then, descend 14 meters underground to uncover the hidden 4th-century church built atop St. Clement’s home, adorned with early Christian frescoes. Continue deeper underground to explore one of Rome’s best-preserved Mithraic temples, offering a rare glimpse into ancient pagan rituals. Feel the eerie atmosphere and witness an underground river before emerging back into the basilica, reflecting on your journey through both Roman and Christian history.
For those seeking more, opt for an additional visit to the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo, a stunning example of circular architecture. Inside, you'll be mesmerised by vibrant frescoes that line the walls, each depicting dramatic scenes of early Christian martyrs. These powerful images vividly showcase the courage and sacrifices of saints who endured immense trials for their faith. As your guide reveals the stories behind these incredible artworks, you’ll gain profound insight into the devotion and struggles that have shaped Rome’s religious history.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- 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
- Photography and filming inside the basilica’s is not allowed
- Your phone should be on put on silence before visiting the basilica’s
- If you choose to extend your tour with the optional visit to Santo Stefano Rotondo, please note that the itinerary may vary. Depending on the schedule, you may begin your visit at Basilica San Clemente and proceed to Santo Stefano Rotondo, or vice versa
- It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved and you will be walking many steps and stairs
- Pets are not allowed inside the basilica’s
- We recommend you to bring your own headphones in order to minimise plastic waste
- The frescoes inside the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo depict graphic scenes of martyrdom and may not be appropriate for children
- Please note that the extended option with Santo Stefano Rotondo may occasionally be unavailable due to special events or liturgical celebrations
- Not recommended for customers with claustrophobia
Reviews(7)
What an amazing experience- Rome is full of hidden treasures, and this was certainly one of them! Mario was the perfect guide, and has so much knowledge about each and every place on our tour! I was so excited about this tour, and was not disappointed! I would highly recommend this tour!
Thank you so much for your review, we are glad to hear that you enjoyed the guided tour with Mario!
This is a must see if you are in Rome! It was FASCINATING! Standing on a floor from 329AD - it's mind blowing! It's such a non -descript building from the outside - but inside - wow - just wow!
Thank you for your feedback! We are very happy to hear you enjoyed your tour of the St. Clement's Basilica and we hope to see you again in the future on one of our tours here in Rome! :)
We loved our guide for our San Clemente! The mosaic work in the basilica was stunning. The history of the underground structure is so well preserved. We would highly recommend this tour.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts. We are glad you enjoyed this experience with us :)
We had a very informative and enjoyable tour with Tara Bos. We learned so much! Although St. Clement's Basilica isn't a major attraction in Rome, Tara made it incredibly interesting and worthwhile.
Thank you so much for your feedback! We hope to see you again on one of our other tours in Rome :)
The museum and crypt were outstanding as well as the Gregorian cha t concert. I only wish that they had instructed the audience not to clap after each chant- it was very disruptive and spoiled the sacred mood of the chants. Save applause until it is over.
We visited the Basilica of San Clemente and its basements with Dtt. Lorenzo, an extremely passionate, professional and highly trained archaeologist. Discovering this magical place with him made the experience a continuous wonder. The tour was exhaustive and interesting especially because Lorenzo gave us so many details and curiosities to make us appreciate even more the beauties of this unique church!, you could listen to it for hours and hours! We were enchanted, thank you very much Lorenzo!!! ❤️
Grazie per il suo feedback. Siamo molto felici che questa esperienza le sia piaciuta! Speriamo di vederci di nuovo in uno dei nostri tour a Roma :)
Inspirational your have learnt so muc, Giovanni brought it all to life for us, highly recommend. Thanks again!!
Thank you so much! We look forward to seeing you again on one of our tours in Rome :)
