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Archaeological Area of ​​Santa Croce in Gerusalemme: A Journey Through Time

Uncover Rome's past at the Archaeological Area of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, from imperial villas to sacred relics.

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Explore the fascinating Archaeological Area of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, where layers of Roman history unfold. From imperial villas to a basilica housing sacred relics, discover the rich tapestry of Rome's past.

A brief summary to Archaeological Area of ​​Santa Croce in Gerusalemme

  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a tour of the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme to see the relics of the Passion of Jesus Christ.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Check the official website for opening hours, as they may vary.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Archaeological Area of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme is easily accessible by public transport. From Termini Station, take Metro Line A to San Giovanni. From there, it's a short walk or a quick tram ride (Tram Line 3 or 8) to Piazza di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme. A single metro/tram ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes.

  • Walking

    If you are near the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, you can easily walk to the Archaeological Area of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme. Head east along Via di San Giovanni in Laterano, then turn right onto Piazza di Porta Maggiore. Continue straight, and you'll arrive at Piazza di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Rome. A taxi ride from Termini Station to Piazza di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme typically costs between €8 and €15, depending on traffic. Note that there may be a surcharge for rides from Termini Station.

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Discover more about Archaeological Area of ​​Santa Croce in Gerusalemme

The Archaeological Area of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme offers a captivating glimpse into Rome's layered past. Located near the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, this area was once part of the Horti Variani, an imperial villa complex that included a palace, the Amphitheatrum Castrense, and the Circus Varianus. Originally built by Emperor Septimius Severus and completed by Elagabalus in the 3rd century AD, the complex later became the residence of Empress Helena, mother of Constantine I. She transformed part of the residential complex into a chapel to house relics of the Cross, which she had brought from the Holy Land. This chapel formed the nucleus of the Basilica of the Holy Cross. Today, visitors can explore the remains of this once-grand imperial palace, including the hall adapted as a chapel for the relics of the Holy Cross and the stately apsidal hall. The archaeological area also contains remains of houses with frescoes and mosaics, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once inhabited this space. The Amphitheatrum Castrense, though partially incorporated into the Aurelian Walls, stands as a testament to the area's rich history. The Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme itself is one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome, holding several relics, including fragments of the True Cross, a nail, and thorns from the Crown of Thorns.

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