5 (65)
Rome
Rome's Hidden History: Underground Temples & Crucifixion Relics
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Overview
Rome: Underground Temples and Crucifixion Relics Walking Tour is a journey through the city's hidden layers, exploring the early days of Christianity. This walking tour takes participants beneath the bustling streets to discover ancient pagan temples and impressive churches, offering a unique perspective on Rome's religious evolution.
Visitors can expect to see original relics believed to be from the Crucifixion of Christ, as well as soil brought from the Holy Land. Key stops include the Basilica di San Clemente, with its fascinating underground levels; the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, one of the oldest and most important churches in Rome; the Scala Santa (Holy Stairs), said to be the stairs Jesus climbed to meet Pontius Pilate; the Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, which houses relics of the Passion; and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, known for its stunning mosaics.
The experience includes a live professional guide who provides historical context and insights, entrance fees to all sites, and headsets to ensure participants can clearly hear the guide's commentary. Gratuities and hotel pickup/drop-off are not included. 
Highlights
Explore Underground Rome: Descend beneath the city to discover a hidden pagan temple.
See Holy Relics: View original relics believed to be from the Crucifixion of Christ.
Visit Important Churches: Explore four impressive basilicas, including San Clemente and Santa Maria Maggiore.
Expert Local Guide: Learn from a professional guide with deep knowledge of Rome's history.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally enjoyed the tour, especially the historical information and the chance to see unique religious sites, but some felt it could be paced better.
Customers really liked learning about the history and seeing the old churches.
The tour guides were very good at explaining everything.
Many people enjoyed going underground to see the old temple.
Seeing the relics from the Crucifixion was a highlight for many visitors.
Some people felt the tour was a little too long.
A few visitors wished they had more time at each stop.
The Journey
Basilica di San Clemente
Descend into the captivating Basilica di San Clemente, a multi-tiered marvel located just a stone's throw from the Colosseum. Explore three layers of history, uncovering a 1st-century Roman house, a 4th-century basilica, and a 12th-century church, each revealing secrets of pagan cults, early Christianity, and mystical symbolism. Discover the remarkably preserved Temple of Mithras and hear the rushing waters of an ancient underground river that flows beneath Rome. Marvel at the intricate mosaics that whisper tales of a forgotten world, all within an intimate group setting.
Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano
Journey to the Cathedral of Rome, the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, revered as the 'Mother and Head of all Churches on Earth.' Immerse yourself in the basilica's golden interior, adorned with ancient frescoes that recount the rise of Christianity. Uncover the story of Emperor Constantine and his pivotal role in legalizing Christianity in 313 AD, shaping the religious landscape of the Roman Empire and beyond. Experience the grandeur and spiritual significance of this cornerstone of Christian history.
Scala Santa (Holy Stairs)
Reflect on the journey of St. Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, and her pilgrimage to Jerusalem. See the Scala Santa, the Holy Stairs, believed to be the original steps Jesus climbed at his trial in Pontius Pilate's praetorium. Brought from Jerusalem, these marble stairs, now encased in wood for preservation, offer a tangible connection to the Passion of Christ. Ascend these sacred steps in quiet contemplation, retracing the footsteps of faith and sacrifice.
Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme
Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, uniquely constructed with earth transported from the Holy Land. Discover the sacred relics brought back by St. Helena, including a nail from the Crucifixion, a fragment of the Cross, and the inscription board placed above Jesus by Pontius Pilate. See also fragments of the wall from the cave of the nativity in Bethlehem and two thorns of the crown of the Passion of Christ. This basilica serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring connection between Rome and the Holy Land.
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Extend your spiritual exploration to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome's four major basilicas. Lose yourself in the stunning mosaics that adorn its walls, depicting biblical scenes and Marian devotion. Discover the sacred relics that have cemented the basilica's place in Christian history, and feel the echoes of centuries of prayer and pilgrimage. This basilica stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the artistic beauty inspired by devotion.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes entrance fees to all sites, a live professional guide, and headsets to clearly hear the guide. It excludes optional gratuities and hotel pickup/drop-off. The meeting point is a designated location in central Rome. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the meeting point.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour with some uneven surfaces. Also, dress respectfully when visiting the churches (shoulders and knees covered). Bringing a water bottle is a good idea, especially during the warmer months.
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Rome
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