Magpie
5.0(7 reviews)

Private Underground Tour of St. Clement's Basilica

From€189
1 hour
Province of Rome, Italy

About this activity

Delve into Rome's rich history with a private tour of St. Clement's Basilica's underground temples, featuring skip-the-line access and expert guidance.

Highlights

  • Explore ancient underground temples
  • Skip-the-line access to St. Clement's Basilica
  • Learn about Rome's layered history
  • Discover hidden archaeological sites
  • Experience a private guided tour

Full description

Uncover the secrets beneath Rome's streets with a private tour of St. Clement's Basilica's underground temples. Skip the lines and descend into layers of history, from a 12th-century church to a 4th-century basilica and even deeper to a 1st-century pagan temple. Your expert guide will illuminate the stories and significance of these ancient sites, offering a unique glimpse into Rome's past. This personalized experience ensures a deeper understanding of the city's layered history, all in a private setting tailored to your interests.

Included / Excluded

  • Expert guide
  • Skip-the-line access
  • Comprehensive tour of underground temples
  • Food and beverages

Itinerary

1

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.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
2

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.

Duration: 45 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tours are conducted in English; please ensure you understand the language.
  • Photography may be restricted in certain areas; follow the guide's instructions.
  • The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the underground sites.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven surfaces.
  • Bring a camera to capture the intricate details of the underground sites.
  • Be prepared for a moderate amount of walking and stair climbing.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

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

Accessibility

  • Infant Seats Available
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • 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

Traveler reviews

5.0
7 reviews
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Hidden Treasure

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!

Claire_HOct 8, 2025VIATOR

Wow! Just wow!

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!

DAJ162Nov 18, 2024TRIPADVISOR

A quiet beautiful gem!

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.

Allison_SOct 19, 2023VIATOR

Excellent tour of St. Clements's Basilica with Tara Bos.

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.

garyb635May 28, 2023TRIPADVISOR

No clapping please!

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.

Diana_LMay 20, 2023VIATOR

Additional information

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 know that the extended option with Santo Stefano Rotondo is available on all days except Mondays since the church is closed on Mondays
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