Rome: San Clemente Underground & Basilica Small Group Tour

Let’s explore the captivating layers of history beneath the Basilica of San Clemente in Rome. On this small group tour, we’ll explore the fascinating underground world, uncovering a 12th-century church, a 4th-century basilica, and an ancient Mithraic temple. With an expert guide by our side, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of Rome’s rich past and uncover the intriguing connections between these architectural wonders. Are you ready to unravel the secrets hidden beneath the streets of the Eternal City?

Key Points

• Explore the archaeological layers beneath the Basilica of San Clemente, including a 12th-century church, 4th-century basilica, and ancient Mithraic temple.
• Enjoy a small group format with personalized attention and expert insights from an English-speaking guide.
• Capture unique photographs in the cool, underground environment of the historical site.
• Convenient tour package includes entrance tickets, gratuities, and hotel pick-up/drop-off.
• Tour duration of just under 5 hours provides an immersive experience in Rome’s history.

Tour Overview

The San Clemente Underground & Basilica Small Group Tour allows us to discover the archaeological layers beneath the Basilica of San Clemente in Rome.

We’ll explore a 12th-century church, a 4th-century basilica, an ancient pagan Mithraic temple, and ruins of Roman homes.

With a small group size, we’ll get personal attention and special insights into ancient Roman history from our expert English-speaking guide.

The tour includes entrance tickets, gratuities, and hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience.

At just under 5 hours, it’s the perfect way to immerse ourselves in Rome’s rich past.

Highlights of the San Clemente Underground & Basilica Tour

Discover archaeological wonders as we descend into the subterranean layers beneath the Basilica of San Clemente.

We’ll explore a 12th-century church, a 4th-century basilica, an ancient pagan Mithraic temple, and ruins of Roman homes.

This small group tour provides personalized attention and expert insights into Rome’s layered history.

Marvel at the cool underground environment and snap photos to capture the experience.

The knowledgeable guide brings these ancient sites to life, making history come alive.

With comfortable transportation and flexible policies, this is an unmissable opportunity to uncover the secrets hidden beneath one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Where’s the meeting point for this tour?

The meeting point is located at Via di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 126, near the Basilica of San Clemente.

It’s easily accessible by taking the Line B ‘Colosseo’ metro.

The tour ends at the Basilica of San Clemente, so you’ll conveniently end up right back where you started.

The guide will be holding a sign with the EcoArt logo, making them easy to spot.

Just be sure to arrive at the outdoor meeting location on time, as the tour departs promptly.

This small group experience promises personalized attention throughout.

Accessibility and Participation

Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible and may not be recommended for guests with mobility issues. The route involves several steps and uneven terrain throughout the underground excavations and basilica. However, most travelers should still be able to participate, though some monuments may be under restoration due to the Jubilee year.

Accessibility	Details
Wheelchair access	Not available
Mobility issues	Not recommended due to steps and uneven terrain
Most travelers	Can generally participate
Restoration work	May impact access to some monuments
Jubilee year	Ongoing

Exploring the Layers of History

As we descend into the underground layers beneath the Basilica of San Clemente, we’ll uncover a captivating journey through Rome’s rich history.

We’ll explore a 12th-century church, a 4th-century basilica, an ancient pagan Mithraic temple, and ruins of Roman homes.

This small group tour allows us to explore the multi-layered archaeological site, where our expert guide will bring the past to life with insightful commentary.

From the cool, subterranean environment to the opportunity for up-close photographs, this tour offers a unique perspective on Rome’s storied legacy.

Discovering the Mithraic Temple

Descending deeper underground, we’ll uncover the fascinating remains of an ancient Mithraic temple.

This mysterious cult, dedicated to the Persian god Mithras, left behind a subterranean sanctuary where they practiced their rituals.

As we explore this sacred space, we’ll discover:

• Intricate carvings and reliefs depicting Mithraic iconography
• The altar where worshippers made offerings to Mithras
• Remnants of the ceremonial benches where initiates reclined during ceremonies

These ancient ruins offer a rare glimpse into the secretive world of Roman mystery cults, shedding light on the diverse religious landscape of the time.

The 12th-Century Church and 4th-Century Basilica

Atop the ancient ruins, we’ll find the 12th-century Church of San Clemente, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture.

Venture inside to admire the intricate stone carvings, frescoes, and Byzantine mosaics that adorn the walls and ceilings.

Descend further to the 4th-century basilica, which features well-preserved columns, marble floors, and an impressive central apse.

This lower-level church offers a glimpse into early Christian worship spaces.

Together, these layers showcase the rich history of this remarkable site, where the past and present intertwine, inviting us to step back in time and appreciate Rome’s enduring legacy.

Guest Experiences and Feedback

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides who bring San Clemente’s layered history to life.

Guests appreciate the unique insights into Rome’s art, architecture, and archaeology, as well as the personalized attention in the small group format.

The tour highlights include:

• The cool, underground environment that allows you to explore ancient Roman ruins and a Mithraic temple.
• The opportunity to take amazing photos and capture the beauty of the 12th-century church and 4th-century basilica.
• The seamless booking process and flexible cancellation policies that provide added comfort and convenience.

The Sum Up

Discover the captivating layers of Rome’s past on this immersive San Clemente Underground & Basilica tour. Explore a 12th-century church, 4th-century basilica, and ancient Mithraic temple, guided by an expert who brings the city’s rich history to life. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique experience, this small group tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the fascinating subterranean world beneath the Basilica of San Clemente.