The Colosseum and the Mamertine Prison in Rome offer a fascinating glimpse into the tumultuous history of the early Christian movement. Visitors can explore the grandeur of the Colosseum‘s underground levels and imagine the spectacles that once unfolded there. But perhaps the most captivating aspect of this tour is the chance to descend into the Mamertine Prison, where the apostle St. Peter is said to have been held before his execution. This unique experience not only immerses you in the past but also raises intriguing questions about the challenges faced by the early followers of Christianity in the heart of the Roman Empire.
Key Points
- The tour includes skip-the-line access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, allowing visitors to explore these iconic Roman landmarks.
- The tour’s first stop is the Mamertine Prison, where visitors can learn about the imprisonment of St. Peter and St. Paul and see the altar commemorating their captivity.
- The tour focuses on the imprisonment of St. Peter, highlighting the captivating story of how he and St. Paul endured their captivity and became martyrs.
- At the Colosseum, visitors can walk in the footsteps of ancient Roman gladiators and descend to the arena floor and underground level of the iconic structure.
- The tour also includes exploration of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where visitors can admire the impressive ruins and learn about the political, economic, and social life of ancient Rome.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Details
The tour package costs €109.23 per person and lasts 3 hours, with a 75% refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers will enjoy skip-the-line access to the iconic Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill. At the Mamertine Prison, an interactive video guide provides insights into the captivating life of St. Peter.
The tour also allows visitors to walk in the footsteps of Roman gladiators at the Colosseum and explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, learning about the ‘Caput Mundi’ and the she-wolf legend.
The tour is led by licensed English-speaking guides, and the entry tickets to all sites are included in the price.
Highlights
Highlights of the tour include an interactive video guide at the Mamertine Prison, which provides captivating insights into the life of St. Peter.
Visitors will walk in the footsteps of Roman gladiators at the iconic Colosseum and explore the awe-inspiring Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Along the way, guests will learn the meaning of the term ‘Caput Mundi’ and the legendary story of the she-wolf.
With skip-the-line access, travelers can maximize their time and delve deeper into the rich history of ancient Rome.
This comprehensive tour offers a seamless experience, bringing the captivating past to life through the guidance of a knowledgeable English-speaking expert.
Mamertine Prison
One of the first stops on the tour is the Mamertine Prison, where visitors begin with an interactive video guide that provides captivating insights into the life of St. Peter.
This ancient Roman prison is said to have held the apostle during his final days before his execution. The multimedia presentation brings the history to life, allowing guests to enjoy the dramatic events that unfolded within these walls.
After the video, visitors can explore the prison itself and see the altar commemorating the imprisonment of St. Peter and Paul. This unique experience sets the stage for the rest of the tour, offering a glimpse into the rich and turbulent history of Rome.
St. Peter’s Imprisonment
After exploring the Mamertine Prison and learning about its connection to St. Peter, visitors continue their journey by focusing on the imprisonment of the apostle himself.
St. Peter’s captivity within these ancient walls was a pivotal moment in early Christian history, shedding light on the challenges and persecutions faced by the fledgling religion.
During this tour, guests will visit the altar commemorating the site where St. Peter and St. Paul were imprisoned. Here, they’ll discover the captivating story of how these two influential figures endured their captivity and ultimately met their fate as martyrs for their faith.
This powerful experience offers a deeper understanding of the early Christian movement and its resilience in the face of adversity.
Colosseum Tour
The Colosseum tour allows visitors to walk in the footsteps of ancient Roman gladiators, immersing them in the awe-inspiring grandeur of this iconic structure. The tour includes express access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, bypassing the long queues. Highlights of the experience include descending to the arena floor and underground level of the Colosseum, where the gladiators once fought. Along the way, a licensed English-speaking guide provides historical insights, bringing the site’s rich history to life.
| Tour Details | Inclusions |
|---|---|
| €109.23 per person | Express access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill |
| Duration: 3 hours | Licensed English-speaking guide at the Colosseum and Roman Forum |
| Cancellation policy: 75% refund up to 24 hours in advance | Entry tickets and video guide to the Mamertine Prison |
| Skip-the-line access | Exclusions: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, Gratuities, Not suitable for wheelchair users |
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Following the Colosseum tour, visitors can explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where they’ll uncover the captivating history and legends of ancient Rome.
The Roman Forum, once the vibrant heart of the Roman Empire, offers a glimpse into the political, economic, and social life of the city.
The Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome, provides stunning views and insights into the city’s origins.
As visitors wander through these historic sites, they can:
- Admire the impressive ruins of ancient temples, basilicas, and government buildings
- Learn about the significance of landmarks like the Arch of Titus and the Temple of Saturn
- Discover the site where Julius Caesar was assassinated
- Explore the remains of the Domus Augustana, the palace of the Roman emperors
- Gain a deeper understanding of the rise and fall of the Roman Empire.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour includes an English-speaking guide for the Colosseum and Roman Forum, express entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, as well as a video guide for the Mamertine Prison.
However, it excludes hotel pick-up and drop-off, gratuities, and isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Guests will enjoy skip-the-line access to the iconic Colosseum, where they’ll descend to the arena floor and underground level.
The tour also explores the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, providing historical insights into the captivating life of St. Peter.
With a duration of 3 hours and a cancellation policy offering a 75% refund up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers an enriching and convenient experience.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel With St. Peters Basilica Access
- Expert Guided Tour of Colosseum Underground OR Arena and Forum
- The Original Roman Crypts and Catacombs Tour With Transfers
- Tuscany Guided Day Trip From Rome With Lunch & Wine Tasting
- Colosseum Underground and Ancient Rome Small Group – 6 People Max
- Skip-the-Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peters | Small Group
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos Inside the Colosseum?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the Colosseum, though flash photography may be restricted. Check for any posted rules or ask the staff upon entry to ensure you follow the guidelines during your visit.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages?
The tour is available in multiple languages, including English. Customers can choose their preferred language when booking to ensure a guided experience tailored to their needs. Multilingual tours provide accessibility for international visitors.
How Extensive Is the Mamertine Prison Video Guide?
The Mamertine Prison video guide provides an interactive, multimedia experience that gives visitors a captivating look into the prison’s history and significance. It doesn’t merely recount facts but brings the site’s past to life.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for this tour, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Visitors should avoid wearing very short skirts or tank tops to ensure appropriate attire for the historic sites.
What if I’m Running Late for the Tour?
If you’re running late for the tour, contact the tour operator as soon as possible. They may be able to accommodate you or reschedule your tour, but can’t guarantee entry if you miss the start time.
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Recap
This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the Colosseum and the Mamertine Prison, where the apostle St. Peter is said to have been imprisoned.
Visitors can enjoy the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Colosseum and learn about the captivating story of St. Peter’s imprisonment, gaining a deeper understanding of the early Christian movement in ancient Rome.
