Underground Rome Tours with Sotterranei di Roma
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with basic mobility; requires walking and some stair navigation.
Overview
Descend beneath Rome’s streets to uncover skeletal crypts, ancient aqueducts, and the Domitian Stadium ruins with Sotterranei di Roma’s immersive three-hour tour. This underground journey offers a rare glimpse into the city’s hidden past.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
Expect uneven and occasionally narrow passageways; sturdy footwear will keep you steady during the three-hour tour.
Photography restrictions apply
Not all underground sites permit photography; follow guide instructions to respect preservation rules.
Bring a jacket or sweater
Underground locations maintain cool, stable temperatures year-round, so dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Prepare for low-light conditions
Some underground areas have dim lighting; consider bringing a small flashlight if allowed or rely on provided illumination.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Occasional bats in deeper underground chambers
- Urban birds nesting near surface access points
History
The Domitian Stadium beneath Piazza Navona dates to the 1st century CE, marking Rome’s first stone stadium primarily used for athletic contests.
Conservation
Sotterranei di Roma implements strict preservation measures to protect ancient structures from visitor impact, including limited group sizes and no-flash photography.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides stability on uneven floors and stairs throughout the tour.
Light jacket or sweater
Keeps you warm in the stable, cool underground atmosphere year-round.
all specific
Small flashlight
Helpful for dark spots where lighting is minimal or recommended by guides.
Camera
For capturing permitted sections of the crypt, aqueduct, and stadium ruins.