Rome: Underground Temples and Crucifixion Relics Walking Tour

Rome, IT
96% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (51 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    All fees and taxes
  • inclusion
    Live professional guide
  • inclusion
    Entrance fees
  • inclusion
    Headsets to hear clear your guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Optional gratuities
  • exclusion
    Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting Point

Meet at the TouriksPoint at Via di San Giovanni in Laterano 132, 15 meters from the Basilica of St. Clement. Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled start time.

Meeting point

Via di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 132, 00184 Roma RM , Italy

End point

What to expect

1

Basilica of San Clemente

You will enjoy a fascinating journey deep underground St. Clement's Basilica, a few meters away from the Colosseum. You will go through three layers of ancient monuments built on top of each other, and learn about forgotten pagan cults, early Christianity, and mystic symbolism. You will visit the best preserved Temple of Mithras and touch the underground river flowing below the streets of Rome and below the Colosseum. You will marvel at ancient mosaics and at the stories they portray. You will appreciate the intimacy of a small group of maximum 10 people

Duration 75 minutes
Admission Admission Included
2

Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano

Having learned about paganism, the early persecutions and the martyrs, make a walk to the Cathedral of Rome, the Basilica of St. John Lateran, and find out why it is known as “Mother and head of all churches on Earth”. Be impressed by the beauty of the golden interior and the ancient frescos and hear about Emperor Constantine and why he legalized Christianity in 313.

Duration 30 minutes
3

Pontifical Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs

Learn about the Emperor’s mother, St. Helena, and her pilgrimage to Jerusalem to recover the artifacts, safeguarded by the early underground church in the Holy Land. Among those, see the Holy Stairs, the original stairs of the praetorium which Jesus climbed at his judgment.

Duration 15 minutes
4

Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme

Finally, walk to the church built with earth brought from the Holy land, the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem and see the other Holy Relics secured by Helena including a nail from the Crucifixion, the walnut board Pontius Pilate put above the cross as well as the wood of the Cross Jesus was crucified on. See also fragments of the wall from the cave of the nativity in Bethlehem and two thorns of the crown of the Passion of Christ.

Duration 30 minutes
5

Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major

Choose to extend your journey to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, where stunning mosaics and sacred relics offer insight into the church's importance in Christian history.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Specialized infant seats are available
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    Please be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the tour starts in order to complete the signup and setup the headsets.
  • Additional information
    An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered.
  • Additional information
    Wear comfortable walking shoes: a moderate amount of walking is involved.
  • Additional information
    This tour is not wheelchair-accessible.
  • Additional information
    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.
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for people with claustrophobia
Provided by TOURIKS

What our experts say

  • icon
    Dress modestly for church visits.
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    Grab a coffee at nearby Bar San Clemente.
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    Consider visiting the Colosseum after.
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    Use public transport for easy access.
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    Arrive early for optimal experience.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Unearth the hidden secrets buried beneath Rome's ancient streets on the Rome: Underground Temples & Crucifixion Relics Walking Tour. This immersive journey takes you on a captivating exploration of underground pagan temples and four remarkable churches that unveil the early stages of Christianity. Delve into the history and mysticism that shaped this great city, as you encounter original relics from the Crucifixion of Christ and even soil from the Holy Land.

What to expect?

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable 180-minute adventure through the depths of Rome's rich history. Along this captivating tour, you will visit the iconic Basilica of San Clemente, where you'll venture through three layers of ancient monuments, discovering forgotten pagan cults, early Christianity, and mystical symbolism. Witness the best-preserved Temple of Mithras and feel the resonance of an underground river flowing beneath your feet. Marvel at the ancient mosaics that depict incredible stories from the past. With a maximum group size of just eight people, you'll enjoy an intimate experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Rome's underground world. Continue your journey to the renowned Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, also known as the Cathedral of Rome. Explore its golden interior adorned with ancient frescoes and learn about Emperor Constantine's pivotal role in legalizing Christianity. Discover the Scala Santa and Chapel of San Lorenzo, where St. Helena embarked on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, recovering sacred artifacts safeguarded by the early underground church. At the Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, marvel at relics brought from the Holy Land, including a nail from the Crucifixion, fragments of the wall from the cave of the nativity in Bethlehem, and thorns from the crown of the Passion of Christ.

Who is this for?

This captivating tour is perfect for anyone with a curious mind and a fascination for history, spirituality, and the origins of Christianity. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a religious pilgrim, or simply someone seeking a unique and immersive travel experience, this tour offers something for everyone. It appeals to those who appreciate the significance of ancient relics and the stories they tell. The intimate group size ensures a personalized experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more engaging and interactive tour.

Why book this?

The Rome: Underground Temples & Crucifixion Relics Walking Tour offers a rare opportunity to traverse the hidden depths of Rome, unearthing the buried treasures that shaped the city's history. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour unveils the lesser-known aspects of Christianity's early evolution, providing a deeper understanding of Rome's cultural heritage. With exclusive access to underground temples and churches, you'll have a truly immersive experience that goes beyond traditional sightseeing. The small group size ensures a more intimate and personalized encounter with the sites, enabling you to fully absorb the atmosphere and stories that surround you. Embark on this extraordinary journey and unlock the secrets hidden beneath Rome's streets.

Good to know

During this 180-minute tour, you will visit various religious sites with important historical significance. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking through underground areas and exploring different churches. Remember to arrive at the designated meeting point at Via di San Giovanni in Laterano 132, just a few meters away from the Basilica of St. Clement, 15 minutes before your scheduled start time. Immerse yourself in the captivating tales and symbolism woven into the ancient mosaics and relics. Gain a deeper understanding of Rome's religious heritage and the profound influence it has had on the world.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on the Rome: Underground Temples & Crucifixion Relics Walking Tour have been captivated by its immersive and enlightening experience. They praise the knowledgeable guides who expertly unravel the intertwining history, spirituality, and artistry found within the underground temples and churches. Visitors commend the intimate group size, which allows for a more personalized encounter with the ancient sites and relics. Many highlight the unique opportunity to witness original relics from the Crucifixion of Christ and the soil from the Holy Land. The tour has left travelers with a deeper appreciation for Rome's cultural heritage and a profound sense of connection to the city's ancient past. Embark on this extraordinary journey and be prepared to walk away with a newfound understanding of Rome's hidden treasures and the fascinating stories they hold.

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