Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Guided Tour

Exploring the ancient underground layers beneath Rome’s San Clemente Basilica offers a captivating journey through 2,000 years of history. Visitors can wander the remains of a 4th-century basilica, uncover a 1st-century Mithraic temple, and witness the well-preserved ruins of ancient Roman homes. Led by knowledgeable guides, this 1.5-hour tour provides an immersive experience, inviting guests to step back in time and uncover the hidden stories that lie beneath the surface.

Key Points

• Explore the underground archaeological site of the 2,000-year-old San Clemente Basilica, including an ancient Mithraic temple and remains of Roman homes.
• Marvel at the stunning gold mosaics adorning the upper basilica during this 1.5-hour guided tour.
• Cancellations allowed up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.
• Tour priced at $53.52 per person and includes guided commentary on the site’s history.
• Certain items are prohibited, and a dress code must be observed inside the church.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Guided Tour" offers visitors a captivating exploration of the historic San Clemente Basilica and its underground archaeological site.

Priced at $53.52 per person, the 1.5-hour tour provides a chance to marvel at the basilica’s stunning gold mosaics and descend into an ancient Mithraic temple.

For just $53.52, visitors can marvel at the basilica’s gold mosaics and explore an ancient Mithraic temple in this 1.5-hour guided tour.

With guided commentary on the site’s 2,000-year history, the tour allows participants to navigate three underground levels showcasing Roman homes and artifacts.

Availability is limited, so advance reservations are recommended. Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours prior for a full refund, and a pay-later option is available.

Highlights of the Tour

Exploring the underground archaeological site of San Clemente Basilica is a highlight of this guided tour.

Descending through three levels, visitors can:

1. Marvel at the ancient Mithraic temple, a mysterious relic of Rome’s pagan past.

2. Admire the stunning gold mosaics adorning the Basilica’s interior.

3. Discover the remains of ancient Roman homes, providing a glimpse into daily life centuries ago.

The tour guide’s expertise brings this 2,000-year-old history to life, offering a captivating and immersive experience for first-time visitors to Rome.

Exploring the San Clemente Basilica

As visitors descend the steps into the underground world of the San Clemente Basilica, they’re transported back in time, exploring the multilayered history of this ancient site.

The tour leads them through three distinct levels, each revealing the site’s evolution over 2,000 years. Guests marvel at the well-preserved remains of ancient Roman homes and a Mithraic temple, a testament to the diverse religious and cultural influences that shaped this site.

The highlight is the upper basilica, with its stunning gold mosaics and intricate architectural details that showcase the magnificence of early Christian craftsmanship.

Discovering the Underground Archaeological Site

What awaits visitors as they descend into the underground archaeological site of the San Clemente Basilica? An immersive journey through over 2,000 years of history.

The three-level underground site showcases:

An immersive underground journey revealing an ancient Mithraic temple, Roman homes, and stunning gold mosaics of the Basilica.

1. An ancient Mithraic temple, revealing the mysteries of this ancient Roman cult.

2. Remnants of ancient Roman homes, providing a glimpse into daily life centuries ago.

3. The stunning gold mosaics of the Basilica, a testament to the site’s rich and layered past.

Guided by knowledgeable experts, visitors can navigate this captivating underground world, uncovering the diverse stories that have unfolded within these ancient walls.

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Uncovering the Mithraic Temple

Descending deeper into the underground layers of the San Clemente Basilica, visitors come face-to-face with an ancient Mithraic temple.

This subterranean sanctuary, dedicated to the Persian god Mithras, dates back to the 3rd century AD. The temple’s elaborate mosaics, sculptures, and altars offer a glimpse into the once-thriving Mithraic cult.

Guides explain the rituals and symbolism associated with this mysterious religion, which rivaled early Christianity.

Exploring this remarkable archaeological find provides a fascinating contrast to the ornate, Christian-era Basilica above. The twin-level experience offers a unique window into Rome’s multilayered past.

Navigating the Three Underground Levels

Visitors to the San Clemente Basilica embark on a captivating journey through three distinct underground levels, each unveiling a new chapter in Rome’s rich history.

The first level showcases remains of ancient Roman homes, offering a glimpse into daily life centuries ago.

Descending further, the second level reveals an ancient Mithraic temple, a testament to the diverse religious practices of the era.

The final, deepest level holds the foundations of the Basilica itself, allowing visitors to witness the architectural evolution of this sacred site over two millennia.

Remnants of Ancient Roman Homes

As visitors descend into the first underground level of the San Clemente Basilica, they’re met with the well-preserved remnants of ancient Roman homes.

These ruins date back to the 4th century AD, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of Rome’s residents. The guide points out the foundations, walls, and various household items found on-site, offering insights into the architectural styles and domestic activities of the time.

Visitors can envision the bustling neighborhood that once thrived above these subterranean structures, now frozen in time and available for exploration.

Important Information for Visitors

To visit the San Clemente Basilica, the meeting point is an outdoor location at Via di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 126. The nearest metro stop is Line B ‘Colosseo’.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves navigating stairs. Certain items aren’t allowed, including:

1. Cameras

2. Large bags

3. Video recording and photography inside the church

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as they must be able to navigate stairs independently.

Visitors should also note that shoulders and knees must be covered when inside the church.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Languages Are the Guided Tours Offered In?

The guided tours are offered in multiple languages, typically including English. Visitors should check availability of their preferred language when booking to ensure a tour that meets their needs.

Is Food and Drink Allowed During the Tour?

Food and drink are not allowed during the tour. Visitors should avoid bringing any consumables to maintain the preservation of the archaeological site. The focus is on exploring the underground history and architecture.

Can I Take a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Private tours are available for this attraction. Contact the tour operator to inquire about booking a private tour instead of a group tour if you’d prefer a more personalized experience. Prices may vary for a private tour option.

How Long Does It Take to Complete the Full Tour?

The full tour takes 1.5 hours to complete. It includes 1 hour exploring the Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano and a 30-minute photo stop, allowing visitors to thoroughly experience the site’s rich history and underground archaeological wonders.

Are Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Unfortunately, the tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts for students or seniors. The tour has a fixed price of $53.52 per person, regardless of age or student status. However, the tour does have a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

The Sum Up

The "Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Guided Tour" offers a captivating journey through 2,000 years of history. Visitors can explore the underground archaeological site, marvel at the stunning Mithraic temple, and admire the intricate gold mosaics of the upper basilica. With knowledgeable guides and essential information, this tour provides an enriching experience for those interested in uncovering the layers of Rome’s past.

You can check availability for your dates here: