Small-Group Rome Crypts and Catacombs Tour Including Capuchin Crypt

From the central meeting point, a mini van will take you to the most strategically important roads of the Roman empire. These roads connected Rome with Brindisi in Southeast Italy to improve the movement of military supplies and eventually lead to Rome´s success in the Second Samnite War. As you wander through the extraordinary tunnels of either the Catacombs of San Sebastiano or the Catacombs of San Callisto, you'll get a feel for Rome's chilling past. You will be guided through the winding underground tunnels, as you are told tales of burial, ritual, and religion in ancient Rome.

Gain a unique insight into the Capuchin bone crypt--a truly chilling experience. See a breathtaking display of decorative motifs. Consecutive chambers are decorated using only human bones and mummified corpses. The bones of around 4,000 Capuchin monks were used to create patterns and vignettes in this chilling display. The spectacle was erected in the 1700s, and very little is known about the reasons behind it. It has been speculated that this unconventional display is a kind of “memento mori”--its purpose serving as a reminder that time on earth should be used wisely. 

You will eventually be led to the Crypt of the Three Skeletons, where the theme of life and death is evident. Enclosed in an oval, a skeleton holds a scythe in its right hand and scales in its left hand. It is suspected that the oval is the symbol of life coming to birth with the scales symbolizing the good and evil deeds weighed when we are judged by God. 

A true testament to Rome’s uniquely wonderful architecture, the church dedicated to Pope Clements I is not to be missed. Together with your expert guide, you will travel back in time to explore layers of history. Uncover the mysteries of ancient Roman religion and cults, such as the Mithraic, who would meet in underground temples.