Share this tour
Offered languages
- English
If you're seeking an encounter with Rome's intriguing past, this guided tour of the Catacombs of Rome is just what you need. Delve beneath the bustling streets of the city to discover the chilling tombs that lie hidden underground. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll be immersed in the origins and tales of this extraordinary site. Explore the crypts where renowned popes and martyrs were laid to rest in what was once Rome's busiest burial ground.
Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to visit the renowned Appian Way and the extraordinary Capuchin Crypt, adorned with the bones of approximately 3,700 friars. Your final stop will be Santa Maria in Cosmedin Church, home to Rome's legendary Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth), where you can test your courage and encounter the city's fascinating past firsthand. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience!
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Please Arrive 10 Minutes Early. Piazza Barberini - in front of the Fontana del Tritone. A representative will be there holding a sign with ''The Tour Guy'' on it.
This tour concludes with your visit to Santa Maria in Cosmedin, located in the heart of Rome. From here, you can stroll across the Tiber to explore the charming Trastevere neighborhood or easily return to your accommodation via public transportation.
Itinerary
-
1
Meet Your Guide at Piazza Barberini Once you meet your expert local guide at the iconic Piazza Barberini, nestled in the heart of Rome, you'll embark on a fascinating journey as you are swiftly escorted to the captivating Capuchin Crypts. Within these hallowed grounds lie astonishing exhibits showcasing more than 3,700 human skeletons. Following this bone-chilling encounter, your journey continues to the expansive underground tombs for a guided tour of the Catacombs of Rome before passing by the Appian Way and concluding your tour with a visit to Santa Maria in Cosmedin and its famed Mouth of Truth.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Explore the Capuchin Crypts Nestled beneath the esteemed Church of Santa Maria della Concezione Cappuccini, lie five awe-inspiring chapels adorned with the bones of Capuchin friars. These friars were interred during a time when the Catholic Church permitted burial beneath its sacred grounds. The Capuchin Crypts, although not initially intended as macabre art, serve as a poignant symbol of mortality and the journey of life through the earthly realm. With the added advantage of bypassing queues, you will have the privilege of exploring all five chapels: the Crypt of the Resurrection, the Crypt of the Skulls, the Crypt of the Pelvises, the Crypt of the Leg Bones and Thigh Bones, and the Crypt of the Three Skeletons. This chilling yet captivating display awaits your up-close encounter, offering a truly fascinating experience.
50 minutes • Admission ticket included -
3
Enjoy a guided tour of the St. Callixtus Catacombs. As you journey along the historic Appian Way, you'll encounter the earliest burial grounds of Rome. Here, a fascinating sight awaits as you stop to witness the above-ground cemeteries of the renowned Catacombs of St. Callixtus. But the true adventure lies beneath the surface as you descend into the vast labyrinth of burial sites at one of Rome's most renowned catacombs. Throughout history, these catacombs gained immense prestige as they became the final resting place for revered martyrs and pontiffs. Accompanied by your guide, you'll be led to the crypts housing esteemed popes from the third century, along with an area adorned with remarkably preserved paintings. Prepare to be captivated by the rich history and artistry that lie within these sacred underground chambers.
55 minutes • Admission ticket included -
(Pass by)
Pass by the Via Appia Antica & The Aurelian Walls on your way back to the center of Rome. During the third century, Emperor Aurelian took measures to safeguard Rome from invading barbarians by constructing a defensive wall encircling the city. As you embark on your journey, you'll have the opportunity to observe the impressive Aurelian Walls up close from the comfort of your climate-controlled vehicle. In addition, you'll marvel at a small portion of the ancient Appian Way, a historically significant Roman road that stretches all the way to Puglia in Southern Italy. The Appian Way holds great historical significance, having been the site of the crucifixion of 10,000 slaves during the famous revolt led by Spartacus. Rest assured, you won't witness any such grim scenes today, but your guide will vividly recount the tale, bringing it to life before your eyes. Prepare to be enthralled by the narrative and immerse yourself in the rich history that unfolds along this ancient road.
Admission ticket free -
4
Just outside Santa Maria in Cosmedin, the legendary Bocca della Verità beckons— a marble face shrouded in mystery and myth. For centuries, it has mesmerized visitors, daring them to test its truth-telling powers. Will you be brave enough to place your hand inside and face the challenge of its ancient reputation? As the myths swirl around it, the Bocca remains an enduring symbol of Rome's fascinating blend of history, legend, and intrigue.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
Lastly, step into the enchanting Santa Maria in Cosmedin, where centuries of history and stunning architecture unfold before you. Inside, the serene crypt of Pope Adrian I offers a moment of reflection, as the 8th-century pope rests in eternal peace, adding a profound sense of reverence to the space. Marvel at the church's exquisite mosaics and the harmonious blend of Romanesque and Byzantine styles, each detail transporting you deeper into Rome's rich past.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Due to traffic regulations all children must be seated. Car seats available upon request. Must be requested at least 72 hours in advance.
- Depending on the opening days of the Catacombs, the Catacombs visited can vary
- DRESS CODE: Entrance into any religious site requires a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. The company will not be held responsible for refused entry due to unsuitable dress.
Show 1 more
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Due to traffic regulations all children must be seated. Car seats available upon request. Must be requested at least 72 hours in advance.
- Depending on the opening days of the Catacombs, the Catacombs visited can vary
- DRESS CODE: Entrance into any religious site requires a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. The company will not be held responsible for refused entry due to unsuitable dress.
- We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any walking impairments that require special assistance on our group tours. We are also unable to accommodate strollers or baby carriages.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Show more
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Top Searches
Get our app
