Basilica San Clemente: Underground Guided Tour
At a Glance
Highlights
- Discover the untold secrets of Rome's minor basilica
Tour Details
See the 12th-century Basilica of San Clemente, an archaeological wonder near the Colosseum. Descend through three levels of subterranean mystery, each layer revealing over 2,000 years of intriguing history. The basilica boasts a gold mosaic that adds a shimmering glow to its central aisle. Initially shrouded in mystery, the depths of San Clemente were uncovered in 1860 when a flood prompted an Irish Dominican priest and archaeologist to see below.
Ongoing excavations still see new secrets. Descend a hundred feet, and the first level reveals a forgotten 4th-century basilica, overshadowed by the 12th-century basilica built above it. Go deeper and find relics of an ancient Mithraic temple with its intact altar. See the skeletal remains of Roman houses, preserving a long-gone era.
At the bottom, see the underground spring that sparked the initial discovery.
What Makes This Tour Special
- Guided exploration of three distinct historical layers, offering a comprehensive view of Rome's evolution.
- Access to a well-preserved Mithraic temple with an intact altar, a rarity in Rome.
- Insight from knowledgeable guides who provide context and stories that enrich the experience.
- A chance to see ongoing archaeological work, revealing new findings.
- The opportunity to explore a 4th-century basilica that remains hidden from the public eye.
Historical Background
What's Included
- Entrance to San Clemente archeological site
- Guided tour
Not Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Is This Tour Worth It?
This museums & culture activity is highly rated at 4.9/5 across 15 reviews, priced from ~$64 per person.
Best For
Pros
- +Outstanding rating: 4.9/5
- +Booked through Tiqets
Cons
- -Cancellation policy not specified
- -Requires moderate - the tour involves descending and ascending several flights of stairs, and some areas may require bending or maneuvering through narrow passages. fitness level
