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Activity Rome, Italy

Rome’s Hidden Gems: Underground Layers & A Unique Circular Church

2 hours Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Rome’s Hidden Gems: Underground Layers & A Unique Circular Church

About this activity

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!

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At a glance

Duration
2 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 16 people
People per booking
1–15
Guide
German, Portuguese, English, Italian, French, Spanish
Operated by
TOURIKS

Ages: Infants (0–6 years) · Children (7–17 years) · Adults (18–100 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Headsets to hear the guide clearly
  • Included: Guided tour of Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo
  • Included: Expert live guide
  • Included: Entrance fees to the Basilica di San Clemente
  • Included: Luggage deposit for the duration of the tour

Not included

  • Not included: Food and drinks
  • Not included: Pick-up and drop-off
  • Not included: Optional gratuities

Itinerary

  1. Stop 1

    one hour Admission included

    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.

  2. Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio

    45 min

    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.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • 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 point

  • 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).

Using your ticket

Meet us at the TouriksPoint at Via di San Giovanni in Laterano 132, 15 meters from the Basilica of St. Clement, 00184 Rome.

Please arrive 5 minutes before your scheduled start time.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%

Good to know

  • 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

  • Please note that Santo Stefano Rotondo may occasionally be unavailable due to special events or liturgical celebrations.

Options

  • Small-Group Tour in Italian

    Small-Group Tour: This option is for a guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in a group of max 16 people

    Duration: 2 hours

  • Small-Group Tour in Spanish

    Small-Group Tour : This option is for a guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in a group of max 16 people

    Duration: 2 hours

  • Private Tour in French

    Private Tour: Select this option for a private guided tour of the Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in French

    Duration: 2 hours

  • Private Tour in Portuguese

    Private Tour: This option is for a private guided tour of the Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in Portuguese

    Duration: 2 hours

  • Private Tour in English

    Private Tour: Select this option for a private guided tour of the Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in English

    Duration: 2 hours

  • Small-Group Tour in French

    Small-Group Tour: This option is for a guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in a group of max 16 people

    Duration: 2 hours

  • Private tour in Spanish

    Private Tour: Select this option for a private guided tour of the Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in Spanish

    Duration: 2 hours

  • Private Tour in German

    Private Tour: Select this option for a private guided tour of the Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in German

    Duration: 2 hours

  • Small-Group Tour in German

    Small-Group Tour: This option is for a guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in a group of max 16 people

    Duration: 2 hours

  • Small-Group Tour in English

    Small-Group Tour: This option is for a guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in a group of max 16 people

    Duration: 2 hours

  • Private Tour in Italian

    Private Tour: Select this option for a private guided tour of the Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in Italian

    Duration: 2 hours

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Rome’s Hidden Gems: Underground Layers & A Unique Circular Church

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