Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Guided Tour

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Rome: San Clemente Underground and Basilica Guided Tour
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.8
105 reviews

Explore the fascinating San Clemente underground archeological site in Rome and uncover 2,000 years of history on a guided tour. Admire the wonderful gold mosaics of the Basilica of San Clemente.

About this tour

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 1.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Skip the ticket line
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

T
Troy – United States

The tour itself was amazing, so much cool history. Luka, our guide was the best I ever had. He was extremely knowledgeable and answered all questions. He was very personable and wanted to get to know you. After the tour was over, he hung around and gave his time talking to everyone. I wish he was on more tours.

L
Louise – Denmark

The guide was very well informed, and eager to share her knowledge. Well articulated English and pleasant experience

Itinerary

  • Timeline stop icon

    Starting location:

    Via di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 126

  • Timeline stop icon

    Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano

    Visit, Guided tour (1 hour)

  • Timeline stop icon

    Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano

    Photo stop, Visit (30 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    Rome

    Photo stop, Visit

  • Arrive back at:

    Via di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 126

Main stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Explore the underground archeologic site of San Clemente Basilica in Rome
  • Admire the sparkling gold mosaics of the Basilica of San Clemente
  • Descend into the deepest levels to discover an ancient Mithraic temple
  • Learn about the fascinating history of the site and its discovery in 1860
  • Discover a hidden gem of the city away from the more crowded sites

Full description

Discover one of Rome's hidden gems, the 12th-century Basilica, and the archeological site of San Clemente on a guided walking tour. Navigate three underground levels and learn about over 2,000 years of history.

Make your way to the first level and explore a 4th-century Basilica, which was long forgotten after the construction of the 12th-century Basilica above. Further down, see the remains of an ancient pagan Mithraic temple, complete with an altar.

Learn about how the fascinating ruins were discovered in 1860 when a flood led an Irish Dominican Roman Catholic priest and archaeologist to discover the levels beneath  At the lowest level, see the underground spring which caused the chaos that led to the discovery. 

Discover what remains of ancient Roman homes, painstakingly excavated and impeccably preserved. Uncover a hidden gem of the city away from the more crowded sites.

Includes

  • Entrance fee to San Clement Basilica
  • Tour guide
  • Tips

Not suitable for

  • People with mobility impairments
  • Wheelchair users

Select participants and date

Meeting point

Meet near San Clemente Basilica, at the corner located at Via di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 126. The meeting point is an outdoor location and not an office. The nearest metro stop is Line B ‘Colosseo’.

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Important information

What to bring

  • Comfortable shoes

Not allowed

  • Cameras
  • Luggage or large bags
  • Video recording
  • Photography inside

Know before you go

  • You must be able to climb and descend stairs on your own
  • It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces
  • It is recommended to wear layers because the underground levels may be cooler than the outside temperature
  • There is a dress code inside of the church that requires that your shoulders and knees be covered

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 105 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    5/5
  • Value for money
    4.7/5

Customer photos

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Recommended
T
Troy – United StatesApril 1, 2025 – Verified booking
The tour itself was amazing, so much cool history. Luka, our guide was the best I ever had. He was extremely knowledgeable and answered all questions. He was very personable and wanted to get to know you. After the tour was over, he hung around and gave his time talking to everyone. I wish he was on more tours.
L
Louise – DenmarkFebruary 9, 2025 – Verified booking
The guide was very well informed, and eager to share her knowledge. Well articulated English and pleasant experience
R
Rachel – United KingdomNovember 23, 2024 – Verified booking
Great history lesson of Rome before visiting the ancient sites! The film was a perfect mix of visual & educational information! A must for first time visitors to Rome!

Product ID: 207114

Activity provider:EcoArt Travel

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