Share this tour
Offered languages
- German
- Portuguese
- English
- Italian
- French
- Spanish
Discover the hidden history of Rome on this 2-hour tour, where underground secrets and tales of faith await. Explore the stunning Basilica di San Clemente with its mesmerizing mosaics, then descend into a 4th-century church with early Christian frescoes. Go deeper to uncover a rare 1st-century Mithraic temple, once used by a mysterious pagan cult. Finish at the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo, home to haunting frescoes depicting early martyrdom. With small groups or private options, this tour offers an unforgettable journey through Rome’s spiritual past!
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meet us at Piazza di San Clemente, 00184 Rome. Please arrive 5 minutes before your scheduled starting time. Look for a member of staff holding a yellow label.
This tour ends in Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo and you can choose to either stay or further explore at your own pace. (Note: Depending on the schedule, the order of your visits may vary, and you may end the tour at either Basilica di San Clemente or Santo Stefano Rotondo).
Itinerary
-
1
Start your unforgettable journey at the 12th-century Basilica of San Clemente, where your guide will show you the golden mosaic in the apse and reveal its hidden meanings. Then, descend 14 meters underground to explore the hidden 4th-century church built atop St. Clement’s home, adorned with early Christian frescoes. Continue down to one of Rome’s best-preserved Mithraic temples, offering a rare glimpse into ancient pagan rituals. Feel the eerie atmosphere and witness an underground river before emerging back into the basilica, reflecting on your journey through both Roman and Christian history.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
2
Your second stop will be the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo, a stunning example of circular architecture. Inside, you'll be mesmerised by vibrant frescoes that line the walls, each depicting dramatic scenes of early Christian martyrs. These powerful images vividly showcase the courage and sacrifices of saints who endured immense trials for their faith. As your guide reveals the stories behind these incredible artworks, you’ll gain profound insight into the devotion and struggles that have shaped Rome’s religious history.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Your phone should be on put on silence while you are inside the basilica’s
- The upper basilica is wheelchair accessible, but the lower levels (including the 3rd-century basilica and Mithraic temple) involve several steps and stairs and are therefore not accessible for wheelchair users.
Show 9 more
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Your phone should be on put on silence while you are inside the basilica’s
- The upper basilica is wheelchair accessible, but the lower levels (including the 3rd-century basilica and Mithraic temple) involve several steps and stairs and are therefore not accessible for wheelchair users.
- Modest clothing is required to enter the basilica’s (knees and shoulders should be covered)
- Photography and filming inside the basilica’s is not allowed
- Due to the architectural structures inside and under the basilica’s, this tour unfortunately is not accessible to wheelchair users
- Due to the underground spaces within the Basilica di San Clemente, this tour may not be suitable for individuals with claustrophobia
- The frescoes inside the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo depict graphic scenes of martyrdom and may not be appropriate for children
- It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved and you will be walking many steps and stairs
- Pets are not allowed inside the basilica’s
- We recommend you to bring your own headphones in order to minimise plastic waste
- Please note that the itinerary may vary. Depending on the schedule, you may begin your visit at Basilica San Clemente and proceed to Santo Stefano Rotondo, or vice versa. Therefore, the ending point may vary
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.
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
