Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica

Situated near the iconic Colosseum, the underground archeological site of San Clemente Basilica offers a captivating journey through centuries of history. Uncovered in 1860 after a flood, this 12th-century basilica and its underground levels transport visitors back over 2,000 years.

Descending 100 feet underground, you’ll explore three levels that reveal a forgotten 4th-century Basilica, the remnants of an ancient Mithraic temple, and an underground spring that led to the discovery of this remarkable site. With an English-speaking guide to bring the past to life, you’ll be immersed in the legends and richness of San Clemente Basilica.

From dazzling gold mosaics to ancient Roman ruins, this hidden gem is a must-see for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Good To Know

• The San Clemente Basilica in Rome is an underground archaeological site worth visiting.
• Visitors can explore three underground levels that reveal over 2,000 years of history.
• The site includes a 4th-century Basilica, the remains of an ancient Mithraic temple, and the discovery of an underground spring.
• The tour provides a unique experience with an enthusiastic guide who helps visitors identify Mithras throughout Rome.

Activity Details

The activity details of the Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica tour include a 1.5-hour duration, availability of a live tour guide who speaks English, and the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the archaeological significance and historical preservation of the underground site of San Clemente Basilica. Located near the Colosseum, this hidden gem was discovered in 1860 after a flood and is still being excavated. Visitors can descend 100 feet underground to uncover three levels revealing over 2,000 years of history.

The first level houses a forgotten 4th-century Basilica, the second level holds the remains of an ancient Mithraic temple, and the lowest level reveals an underground spring. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this tour provides an engaging and informative experience that showcases the rich history of Rome.

Experience Highlights

Visitors can explore the underground levels of San Clemente Basilica and uncover over 2,000 years of history. With three underground levels to explore, there are plenty of experience highlights to marvel at. The sparkling gold mosaics of the Basilica of San Clemente are a sight to behold, dazzling visitors with their beauty. Descending into the deepest levels, one can discover an ancient Mithraic temple, providing a glimpse into the religious practices of the past. As visitors continue to explore, they will come across a 4th-century Basilica and the ruins of ancient Roman homes, giving them a deeper understanding of life in ancient Rome. This immersive experience allows visitors to truly enjoy the ancient history and marvel at the impressive underground architecture.

Experience Highlights
Visit the underground archeologic site of San Clemente Basilica
Delight at the sparkling gold mosaics of the Basilica of San Clemente
Descend into the deepest levels to discover an ancient Mithraic temple
Explore three underground levels revealing over 2,000 years of history
Discover a 4th-century Basilica and the ruins of ancient Roman homes

Full Description

One can further explore the underground levels of San Clemente Basilica and gain a deeper understanding of its historical significance. Located near the Colosseum, this 12th-century Basilica and archaeological site is a hidden gem in Rome. Uncovering history, visitors can descend 100 feet underground to discover the fascinating layers of the past.

The excavations, which began in 1860 after a flood, are still ongoing. The first underground level houses a forgotten 4th-century Basilica, showcasing the evolution of architectural styles. On the second level, visitors can marvel at the remains of an ancient Mithraic temple, offering insight into the religious practices of ancient Rome. Finally, the lowest level reveals an underground spring, which led to the discovery of this remarkable site.

Deep underground exploration at San Clemente Basilica unveils over 2,000 years of history, providing a captivating journey through time.

Review Summary

Reviewers were impressed by the overall experience of exploring the underground levels of San Clemente Basilica. They praised the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to explore Rome’s rich history.

Visitors’ impressions were overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing awe and fascination at the depth of history uncovered in the underground levels. The guide’s expertise was highly valued, with reviewers commending their extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for the subject matter.

The tour provided a unique experience that allowed visitors to identify Mithras throughout Rome, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the exploration. Overall, visitors were blown away by the history that unfolded before their eyes, and the enthusiastic guide played a significant role in enhancing their understanding and appreciation of San Clemente Basilica’s underground treasures.

Additional Reviews

Based on the positive feedback from previous visitors, the tour of the underground levels of San Clemente Basilica continues to receive high praise for its knowledgeable guides and captivating exploration of Rome’s hidden history.

One reviewer, Nikki from the Netherlands, highly recommends the tour and praises the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm.

Another reviewer, a traveler from the United States, highlights the amazing experience with Ed, a knowledgeable archaeologist and tour guide. Ed went above and beyond, extending the tour from one hour to two due to the group’s interest. The reviewer highly recommends Ed as the best tour guide they’ve ever had.

These additional reviews further emphasize the value of Ed’s expertise and the unique historical experience offered by the underground tour of San Clemente Basilica.

Directions

Visitors can easily find the San Clemente Underground and Basilica by following clear directions. Here are four things to know about getting there:

1. Transportation options: The San Clemente Underground and Basilica is conveniently located near the Colosseum, making it easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take the metro to the Colosseo station or hop on a bus that stops nearby.

2. Nearby attractions: While visiting the San Clemente Underground and Basilica, visitors can take advantage of its proximity to other popular attractions. They can explore the iconic Colosseum, marvel at the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum, or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Palatine Hill.

3. Clear signage: Once visitors arrive at the San Clemente Underground and Basilica, they’ll find clear signage guiding them to the entrance. They can simply follow the signs to begin their underground adventure.

4. Walking distance: For those who prefer to explore on foot, the San Clemente Underground and Basilica is within walking distance of many central Rome locations. It’s a great opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of the city while making your way to this fascinating underground site.

Common Questions

How Much Does the ‘Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica’ Tour Cost?

Tour pricing for the ‘Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica’ tour varies depending on the number of participants. Group discounts may be available. Contact the tour provider for specific pricing details and to inquire about any discounts.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour of Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica. However, it is recommended that children be accompanied by an adult due to the historical and archaeological nature of the site.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Underground Site and Basilica?

There is no specific dress code for visiting the underground site and basilica, but it is recommended to wear appropriate attire. Visitors should dress modestly and comfortably, keeping in mind the religious and historical significance of the site.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography During the Tour?

There are no restrictions on photography or videography during the tour. Visitors are free to capture the fascinating underground site and Basilica of San Clemente, preserving their memories of this unique experience.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour at San Clemente Underground and Basilica is not wheelchair accessible, so visitors with accessibility concerns may need to consider alternative options. It is recommended to contact the tour provider for more information.

The Sum Up

To sum it up, the San Clemente Underground and Basilica offers a captivating journey through centuries of history.

From the ancient Mithraic temple to the forgotten 4th-century Basilica, visitors are immersed in the rich and fascinating world of Rome’s past.

With ongoing excavations and a knowledgeable tour guide, this hidden gem provides a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious, the San Clemente Underground and Basilica is a must-see destination in Rome.