Ancient Catacombs Tour in Rome by Roman Vacations
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to walk and stand for extended periods with some stairs.
Overview
Traverse the shadowed underground chambers of Rome with Roman Vacations’ private tour. Visit layered basilicas, bone-adorned crypts, and ancient catacombs for an intense dive into the city's darker history.
Ancient Catacombs and Crypts
For all ages! • Great for couples! • 4 hours
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 4-hour journey through Rome's haunting history with a private guide. Explore the layered Basilica di San Clemente, the eerie Capuchin Crypt adorned with friars' bones, and the ancient Catacombs of San Callisto. Discover the city's hidden underground gems and immerse yourself in its dark, fascinating tales.
Everyone asks about the legends of the Roman catacombs and crypts, and on this tour experience, you get the answers to the most popular questions in an up close and personal way. With a private drive, a professional guide, and three incredible and macabre sites, this tour will have you engulfed in Rome’s famous dark side.
Duration
4 hours
About
Experience the very best of the ancient catacombs and crypts in Rome this is the best tour to see many of Rome’s hidden underground gems beginning with the Basilica di San Clemente (the Church of St Clement) whose structure dates all the way back to ancient Rome. The church is a perfect example of the layers of the city with the 11th century church sitting on top of a 4th century AD basilica, on top of the home of a Roman nobleman, destroyed in 64AD in the great fire of Rome.
The next stop is the crypt of the Capuchin Friars in the center of Rome. Here you will see how the friars decorated their crypts with the bones of over 3000 deceased friars. From the crypt to the catacombs, your driver takes you to the Catacombs of San Callisto, a maze of underground burial tunnels dating back to the early 3rd century AD.
What's included
- Entry to each site included in the tour.
- Your own exclusive professional local tour guide
- Headsets for groups when appropriate
- Transport during the tour.
What's Excluded
- Transport to the meeting point
- Food and drinks
- Some temporary exhibitions and special events may be excluded
- Gratuities
Know Before You Go
Please check-in at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Tours will depart promptly at the scheduled time, and no refunds will be given for late arrivals or missed tours.
Proof of identification may be required, so please bring a valid form of photo ID for each guest.
Tours will proceed in all weather conditions, unless the site is closed by authorities for safety reasons. It is highly recommended to bring bottled water, sunscreen, hat and umbrella.
All tours operate within the current COVID-19 regulations set by the Italian Government.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and be sure to dress warmly in colder temperatures, and bring a cover for bare shoulders inside any churches in the warmer months.
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Expect uneven floors and steps inside catacombs and crypts; sturdy footwear enhances comfort and safety.
Bring a Light Jacket or Sweater
Underground locations maintain cool, damp temperatures year-round, so layering is advisable.
Respect Site Rules
Photography may be restricted inside certain areas; follow guide instructions to protect these historic sites.
Hydrate Before and After
Though tours include transport, drinking water inside is not allowed; bring a bottle to sip before and after the tour.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bats occasionally roost in sections of the catacombs.
- Urban birds such as pigeons and sparrows frequent areas near entrances.
History
The Catacombs of San Callisto date back to the early 3rd century AD and served as burial sites for early Christians fleeing persecution.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to protect the fragile frescoes and structural integrity of these underground sites due to visitor impact and natural degradation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rome
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Provides support and traction on uneven surfaces inside ancient tunnels and crypts.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Keeps you warm in consistently cool, humid underground environments.
fall|winter|spring specific
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated before and after the tour, as drinking is not allowed in subterranean areas.
summer|null specific
Portable Charger
Ensures your devices stay powered for photos and navigation throughout the day.