Underground History Tour with Touriks in Rome
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended for walking and stair climbing, but no special training needed
Overview
Discover Rome’s hidden underground secrets with Touriks’ immersive tour of St. Clement’s Basilica and its ancient subterranean temple. Walk through historic layers and uncover stories of early Christians and pagan rites beneath the city streets.
Small Group Tour of St. Clement's Basilica & Underground Temple
55€ • 1h • Discover Rome's hidden gem
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Discover the hidden depths beneath St. Clement’s Basilica, just steps from the Colosseum. This private guided tour takes you 14 meters underground through three layers of history, revealing an ancient Mithraic temple, captivating frescoes, and the stories of early Christian martyrs. Experience a unique journey through time and legend.
Embark on an unexpected experience a stone's throw from the Colosseum.
Venture 14 meters below St Clement’s Basilica to discover a mystical world of forgotten pagan cults and early-Christian legends and frescoes. Cross three layers of history and earth.
Highlights
- Enjoy the quality of a private guided tour
- Jump into a surprising exploration close to the Colosseum
- Venture 14 meters below ground across 3 layers of excavations
- Find an ancient Mithraic Temple and an underground river
- Be seduced by subterranean frescoes, early legends, and golden mosaics
About
Meet your guide in front of St. Clement's Basilica and venture deep underground below its foundations into a mystical world of ancient cults and legends. Journey through several layers of history and earth, down to 14 meters below ground. Live the excitement of gradually exploring the later structures built on top of it on your way up to the surface.
Go back in time down to the deepest point and discover the best-preserved Mithraic temple of the city. Find out about the pagan faith of Ancient Romans before Christianity and be intrigued by its sectarian and esoteric side. Learn about the early-Christian persecutions and martyrs and hear the legend of St. Clement whilst standing in the 1st Century structure that was once his home.
Feel the eerie atmosphere and touch the waters of an underground stream.
Journey higher into the remains of the 4th Century Basilica, built on top of the martyr’s house and below the actual one. Walk along its imposing walls and be fascinated by the ancient frescoes while learning about the scenes and the lives of the martyrs they portray.
End your tour in the beautiful 12th-century Basilica at ground level. Marvel at the stunning golden mosaic in the apse and learn about the hidden symbolism in it.
Important information
- An instant confirmation will be received at the time of booking
- You will need to be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the tour starts
- An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered
- Wear comfortable walking shoes: a moderate amount of walking is involved
- This tour is not wheelchair-accessible
- This tour is subject to weather conditions and/or liturgic-calendar events. If canceled you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
- For environmental reasons, it is preferable that you bring your own earphones and do not print your voucher. We will provide earphones in case you forget yours
- We suggest you do not trash your empty bottle of water since you can refill it everywhere in Rome for free
Meeting point
Meet at Piazza di San Clemente, 00184 Rome. Please arrive 5 minutes before your scheduled start time.
Cancellation policy
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the starting time of the experience
- Refunds and/or amendments are not possible after the 24 hours
- No refunds in case of no-show on the part of the customer
- If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or liturgic-calendar events, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The underground tunnels involve walking on uneven surfaces and stairs, so sturdy footwear is essential.
Bring a flashlight
Although the tour is lit, a small flashlight can help illuminate dark corners and fresco details.
Dress appropriately
Temperatures underground are cooler than above ground, so layer your clothing accordingly.
Arrive early
Arrive a few minutes before your scheduled start to ensure a prompt start in a space with limited access points.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Rarely, bats may inhabit underground cavities
- Small insects might be found near moist stone surfaces
History
St. Clement’s Basilica was built atop earlier structures, reflecting Rome's layered spiritual history from pagan temples to Christian basilicas.
Conservation
Touriks emphasizes preserving these fragile underground sites through sustainable guiding practices, minimizing impact while sharing their stories.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rome
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Sturdy shoes are vital for navigating uneven underground surfaces comfortably.
Light jacket or sweater
Underground temperatures can be cooler, especially in spring and winter.
Small flashlight
Help illuminate dark corners and appreciate fresco details with a personal flashlight.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during your walk through underground chambers.