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5 (18)

Location Icon Rome

Rome's Underground Temples: Small-Group Basilica Tour

Clock

120

Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo Small-Group Tour at Underground Temples of St. Clement's Basilica, located in Rome, invites visitors to uncover the captivating history hidden beneath the city. This walking tour takes participants on a journey through layers of time, exploring ancient pagan temples and early Christian ruins, offering a unique perspective on Rome's rich heritage.

What to Expect: This immersive experience begins with a descent into the underground levels of St. Clement’s Basilica, where a knowledgeable guide leads the way through ancient pagan temples, the 1st-century home of St. Clement, and a 4th-century basilica adorned with original frescoes. Discover an underground river and marvel at the well-preserved mosaics in the 12th-century basilica above ground. The tour also explores the Basilica di San Clemente and, depending on the option selected, the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo. This small-group setting ensures a more intimate experience with personalized attention.

The tour includes headsets to clearly hear the guide, an expert live guide, and entrance fees to the Basilica di San Clemente. Luggage deposit is available at the office for the tour's duration. Note that hotel pick-up and drop-off, food and drinks, and gratuities are not included. A guided tour of Santo Stefano Rotondo is provided only if this option is selected during purchase. This unique exploration caters to those interested in history and archaeology. Quotes Logo

Highlights

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Explore Rome's Hidden History: Descend beneath St. Clement's Basilica to uncover ancient pagan temples and early Christian ruins.

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Expert Guided Tour: A knowledgeable guide will lead you through layers of history.

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Small-Group Experience: Enjoy a more intimate tour with personalized attention.

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Marvel at Ancient Art: See original frescoes and stunning mosaics.

Sentiment Analysis

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Customers generally enjoy this tour, praising the knowledgeable guides and the unique opportunity to explore the underground levels of St. Clement's Basilica. The small group setting enhances the experience, though some find the underground areas a bit cramped and warm. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers say the guide is very knowledgeable and passionate.

    Positive Highlight Icon Visitors loved the unique experience of going underground.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many reviewers mention the small group size as a plus.

    Positive Highlight Icon Customers appreciated learning about the history of the Basilica.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some visitors found the underground areas to be a bit cramped.

    Negative Highlight Icon A few reviewers mentioned that it can get warm underground.

The Journey

1

Basilica di San Clemente

Descend into the depths of time at the Basilica di San Clemente, a mesmerizing multi-layered complex in the heart of Rome. Begin in the 12th-century basilica, marveling at its glittering golden mosaic depicting the Ascension. Venture beneath to a 4th-century church built atop the home of St. Clement, the third pope, adorned with evocative early Christian frescoes. Finally, descend to the 1st-century level to explore a remarkably preserved Mithraeum, a temple dedicated to the mysterious cult of Mithras. Experience the eerie atmosphere enhanced by the presence of an underground river, offering a unique glimpse into pre-Christian Roman religious practices.

2

Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo

Discover the architectural curiosity and artistic grandeur of the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo, Rome's unique circular church. Immerse yourself in the chilling yet inspiring frescoes depicting the gruesome martyrdoms of early Christian saints. Gain a profound understanding of the unwavering faith and sacrifices that shaped the early Church. This basilica offers a powerful and moving experience, a testament to the strength of belief in the face of adversity, making it a compelling addition to any Roman pilgrimage.

Know Before You Go

This tour includes entrance fees to Basilica di San Clemente, headsets to clearly hear the guide, and the services of an expert live guide. Luggage deposit is available at the office. The experience excludes hotel pick-up and drop-off, food and drinks, and optional gratuities. A guided tour of Santo Stefano Rotondo is only included if specifically chosen during purchase.

Hot Tip

Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and navigating stairs. The underground can be warmer than above ground, so dress accordingly.

From €59 Price

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As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.