Rome: Hidden Rome and Bone Crypts

Rome’s underground holds a haunting allure that intrigues the curious traveler. Explore the city’s macabre past, where the bones of nearly 4,000 monks adorn the Capuchin Crypts and layer upon layer of history unfolds in the Basilica of S. Clemente. Guided by a knowledgeable storyteller, you’ll uncover the secrets of ancient burial rites and the legacy of Rome’s dark corridors. But beware – these crypts and catacombs harbor a chilling beauty that may capture your imagination in ways you never expected.

Good To Know

• Explore the Capuchin Crypts, decorated with the bones of almost 4,000 monks, offering a chilling yet compelling glimpse into Christian burial rites.
• Discover over 2,000 years of Roman history at the Basilica of S. Clemente, with its multilayered underground levels showcasing archaeological wonders.
• Visit the Colosseum and the ruins of Nero’s Golden House, which reflect the grandeur and excesses of the Roman Empire.
• Set out on a 3-hour small-group tour that provides an immersive experience and captivating storytelling by a live, English-speaking guide.
• Explore the underground realms of Rome, including the Capuchin Crypts and Basilica of S. Clemente, without upfront payment and with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour package offers an enthralling exploration of Rome’s hidden gems, inviting adventurous travelers on a 3-hour journey through the city’s captivating underground realms.

Priced from $62.27 per person, the small-group excursion promises an immersive experience, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the flexibility of reserving a spot without upfront payment.

Along the way, you will explore the Capuchin Crypts, adorned with the bones of nearly 4,000 monks, and uncover the Basilica of S. Clemente‘s 2,000-year history across its four underground levels.

The tour also provides a glimpse of the Colosseum and the ruins of Nero’s Golden House, all while enjoying the engaging storytelling of a live, English-speaking guide.

Sites Visited

Traversing the hidden realms beneath Rome’s surface, the tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through a tapestry of history. First, the Capuchin Crypts, where the bones of nearly 4,000 monks adorn the walls in an eerie, artistic display. Next, the Basilica of S. Clemente, a multilayered archaeological marvel that spans 2,000 years. The tour then passes by the mighty Colosseum, where gladiators once trained, and the ruins of Nero’s Golden House and the Ludas Magnus, the gladiators’ training grounds.

Site Visited	Highlights
Capuchin Crypts	Decorated with the bones of almost 4,000 monks
Basilica of S. Clemente	Archaeological record with 2,000 years of history across 4 underground levels
Colosseum	Pass by where gladiators trained
Ruins of Nero’s Golden House and Ludas Magnus	Glimpse into the past of Rome’s gladiators

Tour Experience

An engaging storytelling experience awaits as the knowledgeable guide leads visitors through the captivating hidden realms beneath Rome’s surface.

With no pre-recorded audio, the guide’s captivating narration brings the ancient history to life, delving into the intriguing Christian burial rites and the legacy of Saint Francis of Assisi.

Tourists are enthralled as they admire Caravaggio’s masterpiece and the stunning Byzantine art nestled within the Basilica of San Clemente.

The tour immerses visitors in a world of wonder, transporting them through layers of history, from the Colosseum to the Domus Aurea and the Ludus Magnus, where gladiators once trained.

This immersive experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into Rome’s remarkable past.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This captivating journey doesn’t end at the surface. The tour includes guided exploration of the Capuchin Crypts, a chance to view Caravaggio’s masterpiece, and access to the Basilica San Clemente’s remarkable underground levels.

While it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, the experience transports visitors through centuries of history.

• Uncover the haunting beauty of the Capuchin Crypts, adorned with the bones of nearly 4,000 monks.

• Marvel at Caravaggio’s artistic brilliance and the captivating Byzantine art within the Basilica.

• Descend into the Basilica San Clemente’s archaeological layers, revealing over 2,000 years of Roman civilization.

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Important Information

Visitors gather at the iconic Triton Fountain in Piazza Barberini, 10 minutes before the tour’s scheduled start.

They’ll want to wear comfortable shoes to explore the crypts, catacombs, and ruins. No flash photography is allowed, as the tour passes through security checkpoints at the historical sites.

The tour accommodates a range of ages, from children as young as 5 to adults up to 99.

Whether it’s a family adventure or a solo expedition, this immersive journey through Rome’s hidden wonders promises an unforgettable experience for all.

Capuchin Crypts: Macabre Bone Displays

The Capuchin Crypts captivate with their macabre displays of human bones. Elaborately adorned with the skeletal remains of nearly 4,000 monks, these subterranean chambers offer a chilling yet compelling glimpse into the religious practices of the past.

Visitors are struck by the eerie artistry, as the bones are meticulously arranged into decorative patterns, chandeliers, and even entire wall mosaics. Amidst the haunting atmosphere, the tour explores:

• The history of Christian burial rites and the Capuchin order
• The symbolism behind the use of human remains in religious settings
• The striking juxtaposition of life and death celebrated within these sacred spaces.

Basilica of S. Clemente: Layers of History

Beneath the Basilica of S. Clemente lies a remarkable archaeological treasure trove.

Descending through the floors, visitors discover a remarkable record of over 2,000 years of Roman history. The lower levels reveal the ruins of an ancient Mithraeum, a temple dedicated to the Persian god Mithras.

Further down, the remains of a 4th-century church emerge, adorned with stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.

This multilayered site offers a captivating glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to literally walk through the eras. From pagan shrines to early Christian sanctuaries, the Basilica of S. Clemente is a testament to Rome’s enduring legacy, a place where the past and present seamlessly intertwine.

Colosseum and Nero’s Golden House

Towering above the cobblestone streets, the Colosseum commands attention, a colossal reminder of Rome’s imperial might.

Nearby, the crumbling ruins of Nero’s opulent Golden House stand as a testament to the excesses of the Roman emperors.

As the tour group explores these sites, they’ll uncover:

• The amphitheater where gladiators once fought to the death, now a symbol of Rome’s complex history.

• The lavish underground training grounds where warriors honed their skills before entering the arena.

• The extravagant pleasure palace of Nero, a ruler infamous for his debauchery and tyranny.

These evocative ruins bring the past to life, inviting visitors to imagine the triumphs and tragedies that once unfolded within their walls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t mention any dedicated restroom facilities, but there may be opportunities to use restrooms at the sites visited. Travelers should plan accordingly and inquire with the guide about any breaks or stops during the 3-hour experience.

Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy along the tour. However, consuming large meals or alcoholic drinks is not permitted during the 3-hour experience in order to respect the sacred sites visited.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour embraces a casual, comfortable dress code. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy shoes and light, breathable clothing that allows for easy movement. Avoid overly formal attire, as the sites require navigating some uneven terrain.

Do I Need to Bring Any ID or Documents?

For this tour, guests don’t need to bring any ID or documents. Just comfortable shoes and a camera. The knowledgeable guide will handle all the logistics, so travelers can focus on exploring Rome’s hidden gems.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Point?

Participants can leave the tour group at any time, though they won’t be able to re-enter. The tour moves at a steady pace, so it’s best to stay with the group to fully experience the hidden gems of Rome.

The Sum Up

Descend into Rome’s mysterious underworld, where ancient crypts and buried churches unveil the city’s haunting past. Witness the captivating display of bones, explore layers of history, and uncover the secrets that lie beneath the surface. This tour promises an unforgettable journey through the dark corridors of time, leaving you with a deeper understanding of Rome’s captivating and macabre legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: