Private Tour at Underground Temples of St. Clement's Basilica
Uncover the secrets of St. Clement's Basilica at your own pace on this private tour. Embark 46 feet (14 meters) below ground to uncover a mystical realm of ancient pagan rituals, early Christian tales, and frescoes. Get lost in the thrill of exploring layers upon layers of history as you return to the surface. Traverse three eras and even touch the sacred waters of an underground river. Join this exclusive journey into the depths of history and wonder.
Embark on a tour of the underground temples below St Clement's Basilica Learn about early Christian persecution and the legend of St Clement View the fascinating ancient frescoes adorning the walls of underground temples Touch the water of the underground river beneath St Clement's Basilica
Options
Extended English Tour
San Clemente + Santo Stefano: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in English
Duration: 2 hours
What's included in Private Tour at Underground Temples of St. Clement's Basilica
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Basilica of San Clemente
Start your unforgettable journey at the 12th-century Basilica di 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 uncover the hidden 4th-century church built atop St. Clement’s home, adorned with early Christian frescoes. Continue deeper underground to explore 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.
Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio
For those seeking more, opt for an additional visit to 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.
Inclusions
- Headsets to hear the guide clearly
- Expert live guide
- Luggage deposit in our office for the duration of the tour
- Guided tour of Santo Stefano Rotondo (only if this option is selected during purchase)
- Entrance fees to the Basilica di San Clemente
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Optional gratuities
- Guided tour of Santo Stefano Rotondo (unless specifically chosen during purchase)
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered
- This tour is subject to weather conditions and/or liturgic-calendar events. If canceled you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
- Photography and filming inside the basilica’s is not allowed
- Your phone should be on put on silence before visiting the basilica’s
- If you choose to extend your tour with the optional visit to Santo Stefano Rotondo, 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
- 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
- The frescoes inside the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo depict graphic scenes of martyrdom and may not be appropriate for children
- Please know that the extended option with Santo Stefano Rotondo is available on all days except Mondays since the church is closed on Mondays
- Not recommended for customers with claustrophobia
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- 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.
End Points
- This tour will conclude at Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo if you have selected the 2-hour tour with Santo Stefano Rotondo. Please note, the itinerary may vary. Depending on the schedule, you may start at Basilica San Clemente or Santo Stefano Rotondo. Therefore, also the ending point may vary.
- This tour will conclude at Basilica di San Clemente if you have selected the 1-hour tour of Basilica di San Clemente, without the optional visit to Basilica of Santo Stefano Rotondo.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
- Please know that the extended option with Santo Stefano Rotondo is available on all days except Mondays since the church is closed on Mondays - Due to the architectural structures inside and under the Basilica di San Clemente, 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 - If you choose to extend your tour with the optional visit to Santo Stefano Rotondo, 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 - Please be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the tour starts - An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the church: knees and shoulders should be covered - This tour is subject to weather conditions and/or liturgic-calendar events. If canceled you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund - For environmental reasons, it is preferable that you bring your own earphones and do not print your voucher. We will provide earphones in case you forget yours - We suggest you bring your own refillable bottle as you can find drinkable-water fountains everywhere in Rome
