Venture 14 meters below Basilica of San Clemente into a mystical world of pagan cults, early-Christian legends, and stunning frescoes. Extend your tour to the haunting beauty of Santo Stefano Rotondo.

About this activity

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 - 2 hours: Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide: German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese
Private group available

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Akash – United States

our tour guide, Francesca was excellent! very knowledgeable with a good sense of humor. would take a tour with her again!

Rachel – United States

12 out of 10! They couldn't have found a better tour guide for this experience! I believe his name is Paul and is actually an archeologist and professor in Rome! He worked with the priest that discovered multiple artifacts in the basilica and could tell he was just bursting with information. He was easy to understand because he was born in the US but has been in Rome for 25 years. He was fun and excited tell us all about it. If you get this tour with this guide, you are so lucky and are in for a treat!!

Itinerary

2 starting location options:
Piazza di San Clemente, Piazza di San Clemente
Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano
Guided tour (1 hour)
On foot
(15 minutes)
Santo Stefano Rotondo
Guided tour (45 minutes)
Optional
3 drop-off locations:
Piazza di San Clemente, Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio, Piazza di San Clemente

Main stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

Discover one of Rome's best-preserved Mithraic temples and an underground river
Explore early Christian frescoes depicting martyrs in a 4th-century basilica
Uncover the secrets of ancient Roman pagan cults and their hidden rituals
Marvel at the stunning golden mosaic and hidden symbolism in the basilica's apse
Extend your tour to explore Santo Stefano Rotondo's haunting martyrdom frescoes

Full description

Dive deep into Rome’s hidden history with an unforgettable 1-hour journey beneath St. Clement’s basilica. Venture 14 meters underground to discover one of the city’s best-preserved Mithraic temples, a mysterious relic of ancient Roman pagan cults. Explore the esoteric rites of the Romans before Christianity and the secrets of their forgotten beliefs.

Your adventure begins at the stunning 12th-century basilica, where your guide will introduce you to the breathtaking golden mosaic in the apse, revealing its hidden symbolism and its spiritual significance. Next, you will descend 14 meters beneath the basilica to explore the fascinating 4th-century underground church, built directly atop the home of St. Clement, the third pope of Rome. Witness some of the earliest Christian frescoes, depicting the lives and martyrdoms of early Christians and learn about the persecution they faced.

Continue your descent to discover one of the best-preserved Mithraic temples in Rome - an extraordinary relic of ancient Roman paganism. This hidden gem offers a rare glimpse into the Mithraic cult that flourished before Christianity. Your guide will unravel the fascinating rituals and beliefs of this enigmatic sect, providing an intriguing look at Rome’s religious landscape before the rise of Christianity.

Feel the eerie atmosphere as you explore the site, and witness the waters of an underground river, adding an extra layer of mystery to your experience. As you emerge back into the 12th-century basilica, reflect on the incredible journey through time you’ve just experienced.

For those eager to dive deeper into early Christian history, extend your tour with a 45-minute visit to the nearby Santo Stefano Rotondo. Explore its unique circular architecture and haunting frescoes depicting early Christian martyrdom - an evocative continuation of the stories you’ve just uncovered.

This tour is perfect for those seeking to explore Rome off the beaten path. With its rich history and breathtaking art, both basilicas offer an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of early Christian Rome.

PLEASE NOTE: If you choose to extend your tour with the optional visit to the Santo Stefano Rotondo, 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.

Includes

Expert live guide
Entrance fees to the Basilica di San Clemente
Guided tour of Santo Stefano Rotondo (only if this option is selected)
Luggage deposit for the duration of the tour
Headsets to hear the guide clearly

Guided tour of Santo Stefano Rotondo (unless specifically chosen during purchase)
Pick-up and drop-off
Food and drinks
Optional tips

Not suitable for

People with claustrophobia
Wheelchair users

Meeting point

Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked.

Important information

What to bring

Comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Pets
Shorts
Weapons or sharp objects
Food and drinks
Short skirts
Sleeveless shirts
Alcohol and drugs
Video recording
Photography inside

Know before you go

Please know that the extended option with Santo Stefano Rotondo is available on all days except Mondays since the church is closed on Mondays
Due to the architectural structures inside and under the Basilica di San Clemente, 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
If you choose to extend your tour with the optional visit to Santo Stefano Rotondo, 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
This tour is subject to weather conditions and/or liturgic-calendar events. If canceled you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund

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Rome: Tour of St. Clement's Basilica Underground Temples