Magpie

Rome's Hidden Underground & Circular Church Tour

From€99
2 hours
Province of Rome, Italy

About this activity

Uncover Rome's hidden underground sites and a unique circular church on this guided tour, led by an expert local guide, offering an immersive historical experience.

Highlights

  • Explore Rome's hidden underground sites
  • Discover a unique circular church
  • Learn from an expert local guide
  • Experience Rome's rich history
  • Enjoy a small group tour atmosphere

Full description

Delve into Rome's rich history with a guided tour that takes you beneath the city's surface to explore its hidden underground sites. Visit a unique circular church, a testament to Rome's architectural ingenuity. Led by an expert local guide, this tour offers an immersive experience into the city's past, providing insights and stories that bring history to life. Perfect for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, this small group tour ensures a personalized and engaging exploration of Rome's lesser-known treasures.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided tour of Rome's underground sites
  • Visit to a unique circular church
  • Expert local guide
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

Start your unforgettable journey at the 12th-century Basilica of 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 explore the hidden 4th-century church built atop St. Clement’s home, adorned with early Christian frescoes. Continue down to 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

Your second stop will be 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

  • Tour operates in English; ensure you understand the language.
  • Photography may be restricted in certain areas; follow the guide's instructions.
  • Be prepared for some areas with limited lighting; a small flashlight may be helpful.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven surfaces.
  • Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

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

  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Stroller Accessible

Good to know

  • Your phone should be on put on silence while you are inside the basilica’s
  • The upper basilica is wheelchair accessible, but the lower levels (including the 3rd-century basilica and Mithraic temple) involve several steps and stairs and are therefore not accessible for wheelchair users.
  • Modest clothing is required to enter the basilica’s (knees and shoulders should be covered)
  • Photography and filming inside the basilica’s is not allowed
  • Due to the architectural structures inside and under the basilica’s, this tour unfortunately is not accessible to wheelchair users
  • Due to the underground spaces within the Basilica di San Clemente, this tour may not be suitable for individuals with claustrophobia
  • The frescoes inside the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo depict graphic scenes of martyrdom and may not be appropriate for children
  • 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
  • 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. Therefore, the ending point may vary
  • Please note that Santo Stefano Rotondo may occasionally be unavailable due to special events or liturgical celebrations.

Additional information

Your phone should be on put on silence while you are inside the basilica’s The upper basilica is wheelchair accessible, but the lower levels (including the 3rd-century basilica and Mithraic temple) involve several steps and stairs and are therefore not accessible for wheelchair users. Modest clothing is required to enter the basilica’s (knees and shoulders should be covered) Photography and filming inside the basilica’s is not allowed Due to the architectural structures inside and under the basilica’s, this tour unfortunately is not accessible to wheelchair users Due to the underground spaces within the Basilica di San Clemente, this tour may not be suitable for individuals with claustrophobia The frescoes inside the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo depict graphic scenes of martyrdom and may not be appropriate for children 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 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. Therefore, the ending point may vary
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