Rome: San Clemente Basilica and Roman Houses Private Tour

Uncover the captivating layers of Rome’s past on this private tour of the San Clemente Basilica and its underground treasures. Descend through the centuries as you explore the 12th-century church, a 4th-century basilica, and an ancient Mithraic temple, marveling at the intricate mosaics and frescoes that reveal the city’s rich history. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the foundations of ancient Roman homes and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s evolving identity.

About Your Stay

• Explore the 12th-century Basilica of San Clemente, featuring a gold mosaic and three underground levels with ancient Roman homes and a Mithraic temple.
• The 3-hour private tour provides access to archaeological treasures and is available in multiple languages.
• Flexible booking policies allow for cancellation, adjustment, and payment later options.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or claustrophobia due to confined spaces and lack of wheelchair access.
• Discover the rich history and intricate frescoes and mosaics hidden beneath the surface of Rome.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This private tour of the San Clemente Basilica and Roman Houses in Rome offers a unique opportunity to explore over 2,000 years of history.

Priced from $364.80 per person, the 3-hour tour is available in multiple languages. Guests can discover the 12th-century Basilica with its sparkling gold mosaic, navigate three underground levels, and view the remains of an ancient pagan Mithraic temple.

The tour also includes a visit to the ruins of ancient Roman homes and the Roman Houses of the Celio, where intricate frescoes, elegant mosaics, and beautifully adorned rooms can be admired.

This private guided tour provides access to the archaeological site.

Booking Information

How does the booking process work for this private tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later, allowing them to book their place without paying upfront.

This flexible booking option makes it easy for travelers to secure their tour and finalize payment closer to the tour date.

With these convenient booking policies, customers can plan their Rome trip with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed without penalty.

Highlights of the Basilica of San Clemente

Spanning over 2,000 years of history, the Basilica of San Clemente captivates visitors with its multilayered structure and remarkable archaeological findings.

Highlights of the tour include:

1. Exploring a 12th-century Basilica adorned with a sparkling gold mosaic.

2. Navigating three underground levels, including a 4th-century Basilica and the remains of an ancient pagan Mithraic temple.

3. Admiring the intricate frescoes, elegant mosaics, and beautifully adorned rooms of the ancient Roman houses.

This private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Rome’s rich past and uncover the hidden layers of history beneath the city’s surface.

Exploring the Underground Levels

As visitors descend into the underground levels of the Basilica of San Clemente, they’re transported back in time, immersed in the multilayered history that lies beneath the surface of Rome.

Visitors can explore a 4th-century basilica, the remains of a 1st-century Mithraic temple, and the foundations of ancient Roman homes.

Along the way, they’ll discover intricate frescoes, elegant mosaics, and beautifully adorned rooms that offer a glimpse into the daily lives of Rome’s past inhabitants.

This underground realm provides a captivating and immersive experience, allowing visitors to uncover the rich archaeological treasures hidden beneath the basilica.

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Discovering the Pagan Mithraic Temple

Descending deeper into the Basilica’s underground levels, visitors uncover the remains of an ancient pagan Mithraic temple. This mysterious cult, dedicated to the sun god Mithras, was popular in the Roman Empire during the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD.

The temple’s highlights include:

1. The well-preserved altar, where Mithraic rituals were performed.

2. Intricate mosaics and frescoes that depict Mithras and his followers.

3. Remnants of the temple’s architectural features, such as the raised seating area where the initiates would have gathered.

Exploring this subterranean temple offers a unique glimpse into Rome’s religious diversity and the intriguing Mithraic mysteries that once thrived beneath the city.

Visiting the Roman Houses of the Celio

After exploring the ancient Mithraic temple, the tour heads to the Roman Houses of the Celio.

Nestled on the Celio Hill, these ruins offer a glimpse into ancient Roman domestic life. Visitors can wander through the remains of these elegant homes, admiring intricate frescoes and stunning mosaics that once adorned the walls and floors.

The tour guide provides insight into the architectural features and daily activities of the wealthy Romans who once lived here.

Exploring these well-preserved ruins allows travelers to step back in time and imagine the vibrant community that thrived in this area over 2,000 years ago.

Admiring the Artistic Wonders

Within the Roman Houses of the Celio, visitors are treated to a captivating display of ancient Roman artistry.

The highlights include:

Intricate frescoes, elegant mosaics, and beautifully decorated rooms – a captivating display of ancient Roman artistry.

1. Intricate frescoes adorning the walls, showcasing vibrant colors and intricate designs that transport visitors back in time.

2. Elegant mosaics covering the floors, featuring geometric patterns and depictions of mythological figures.

3. Beautifully decorated rooms, with ornate architectural elements and carefully crafted furnishings, providing a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the wealthy Romans who once resided here.

These artistic wonders offer a window into the rich cultural heritage of ancient Rome, inspiring awe and wonder in all who visit.

Accessibility and Important Notes

Although the tour of the San Clemente Basilica and Roman Houses offers a captivating glimpse into ancient Rome, it may not be suitable for all visitors.

The tour isn’t accessible for people with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or wheelchair users due to the underground levels and confined spaces. Plus, flash photography isn’t allowed during the tour.

Visitors should be mindful of these restrictions and consider their physical abilities before booking the tour.

Despite these limitations, the opportunity to explore the rich history and stunning artwork of this archaeological site makes the tour a truly unique and immersive experience.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Exact Starting Time of the Tour?

The tour’s starting time is not specified in the provided details. The tour overview includes the duration of 3 hours but doesn’t mention a specific start time.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, though it may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or those in wheelchairs due to the underground levels and stairs involved.

Can I Take Pictures Inside the Basilica and Roman Houses?

Photography is not allowed inside the Basilica of San Clemente or the Roman Houses. Visitors must avoid using flash photography throughout the archaeological site to preserve the delicate frescoes and mosaics. Guided tours provide access to these historic spaces.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can’t be extended, as it’s a private 3-hour tour. However, travelers can request a longer or customized tour by contacting the tour provider directly, though additional fees may apply.

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Rome Attractions?

Yes, you can combine this private tour with other Rome attractions. Many travelers opt to pair it with visits to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, or the Catacombs to create a comprehensive sightseeing experience in the historic city.

Final Verdict On This Stay

Enjoy Rome’s captivating history on this private tour of the San Clemente Basilica and Roman Houses. Uncover the ancient layers beneath the 12th-century basilica, from a 4th-century church to a Mithraic temple. Explore the ruins of Roman homes and marvel at the stunning mosaics and frescoes that reveal the city’s rich cultural heritage. This unique experience offers a deep dive into Rome’s past, perfect for history enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here: