Private Tour at Underground Temples of St. Clement’s Basilica

Embark on a captivating 1-hour private guided tour beneath Rome’s Basilica di San Clemente and uncover the secrets of its ancient past. Descend 14 meters to explore one of Rome’s best-preserved Mithraic temples, a fascinating 1st-century relic of Roman paganism. Delve into the mysterious rituals of the Mithraic cult and gain insight into their enigmatic beliefs. Marvel at early Christian frescoes in a 4th-century underground church that vividly showcase the courage and suffering of persecuted believers. Extend your experience with a visit to the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo, where haunting frescoes powerfully depict early Christian martyrdom. Ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Rome!

This is your meeting point. Here you will check in, have a seat if you prefer, benefit WiFi internet access and use the toilet.

Here you will meet your guide and head towards Rome’s best-kept secret, Basilica di San Clemente. Get ready to go back in time as you venture 14 meters underground, then gradually explore the different layers of history as you climb back up to the surface.

Start your unforgettable journey at the 12th-century Basilica of San Clemente, where your guide will show you the golden mosaic in the apse and reveal its hidden meanings. Then, descend 14 meters underground to explore the hidden 4th-century church built atop St. Clement’s home, adorned with early Christian frescoes. Continue to one of Rome’s best-preserved Mithraic temples, offering a rare glimpse into ancient pagan rituals. Feel the eerie atmosphere and witness an underground river before emerging back into the basilica, reflecting on your journey through both Roman and Christian history.

For those seeking more, opt for an additional visit to the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo, a stunning example of circular architecture. Inside, you’ll be mesmerised by vibrant frescoes that line the walls, each depicting dramatic scenes of early Christian martyrs. These powerful images vividly showcase the courage and sacrifices of saints who endured immense trials for their faith. As your guide reveals the stories behind these incredible artworks, you’ll gain profound insight into the devotion and struggles that have shaped Rome’s religious history.

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered
• 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
• Photography and filming inside the basilica’s is not allowed
• Your phone should be on put on silence before visiting the basilica’s
• 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
• It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved and you will be walking many steps and stairs
• Pets are not allowed inside the basilica’s
• We recommend you to bring your own headphones in order to minimise plastic waste
• The frescoes inside the Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo depict graphic scenes of martyrdom and may not be appropriate for children
• Please know that the extended option with Santo Stefano Rotondo is available on all days except Mondays since the church is closed on Mondays
• Not recommended for customers with claustrophobia

• Italian Tour
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  Private Tour in Italian: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente with an Italian-speaking guide.
  Duration: 1 hour
• English Tour + Santo Stefano
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  St. Clemente + Santo Stefano: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in English
  Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
• German Tour
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  Private tour in German: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente with a German-speaking guide.
  Duration: 1 hour
• Portuguese Tour+Santo Stefano
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  St. Clemente + Santo Stefano: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in Portuguese
  Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Spanish Tour + Santo Stefano
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  St Clemente + Santo Stefano: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in Spanish
  Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
• German Tour + Santo Stefano
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  St. Clemente + Santo Stefano: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in German
  Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Spanish Tour
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  Private tour in Spanish: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente with a Spanish-speaking guide.
  Duration: 1 hour
• French Tour + Santo Stefano
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  St. Clemente + Santo Stefano: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente & Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo in French
  Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
• French Tour
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  Private tour in French: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente with a French-speaking guide.
  Duration: 1 hour
• Portuguese Tour
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  Private tour in Portuguese: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente with a Portuguese-speaking guide.
  Duration: 1 hour
• English Tour
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  Private tour in English: Select this option for a private guided tour of Basilica di San Clemente with an English-speaking guide.
  Duration: 1 hour

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

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Food and drinks
• Optional gratuities
• Guided tour of Santo Stefano Rotondo (unless specifically chosen during purchase)

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– 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
– Please be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the tour starts
– An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the church: knees and shoulders should be covered
– 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
– For environmental reasons, it is preferable that you bring your own earphones and do not print your voucher. We will provide earphones in case you forget yours
– We suggest you bring your own refillable bottle as you can find drinkable-water fountains everywhere in Rome

Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by TOURIKS.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/Rome.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• This Tour is Rated 5 Stars based on 6 valid reviews on VIATOR.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 15 Travelers is accepted for booking.