Tucked away beneath the bustling streets of Rome lies a captivating relic of the past – the Underground San Clemente Tour. This extraordinary experience offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and hidden wonders of a Basilica dating back to the 1st century AD, located just a stone’s throw from the iconic Colosseum. Join the tour and uncover the layers of this remarkable site, from the Mithraeum to the Cosmatesque Pavement, and marvel at the well-preserved mosaics and frescoes that have stood the test of time. The journey through this subterranean world promises to transport you to a bygone era and leave you eager to discover more.
Key Points
- The tour offers a guided exploration of the three levels of the Basilica of San Clemente, dating back to the 1st century AD near the Colosseum.
- Visitors can discover the Mithraeum, Cosmatesque Pavement, and admire the mosaics, frescoes, and the tomb of St. Cyril.
- The tour lasts approximately one hour and allows guests to skip the ticket line.
- The meeting point is at the entrance of the Basilica, with C.I.S. Tours staff holding a distinctive sign.
- The tour is not suitable for those with claustrophobia or wheelchair users, and participants should wear comfortable shoes and appropriate attire.
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Tour Overview
The Underground San Clemente Tour offers visitors a captivating journey into the historical depths of Rome, featuring a guided exploration of the three levels of the Basilica of San Clemente.
The tour lasts for approximately one hour and allows guests to skip the ticket line, benefiting from the expertise of a live tour guide.
Exploring this private group experience, guests will discover a Basilica near the Colosseum that dates back to the 1st century AD. The tour highlights include the Mithraeum, the Cosmatesque Pavement, and the wonderful mosaics, frescoes, and St. Cyrils tomb.
With comfortable shoes and appropriate attire, visitors can explore the rich history and architecture of this remarkable underground site.
Meeting Point
Gathering at the Basilica of San Clemente’s entrance, visitors look for the C.I.S. Tours staff holding the distinctive sign that marks the meeting point for the Underground San Clemente Tour.
This meeting point ensures the tour group can easily assemble and begin their exploration of the ancient church and its hidden layers.
The staff are there to greet participants, provide any necessary instructions, and lead the group on their exciting journey underground.
The meeting point offers three key benefits:
- Convenient location adjacent to the Basilica entrance
- Clear identification of the tour staff and group
- Efficient start to the tour experience
With the group gathered, the tour can commence, guiding visitors through the fascinating history and secrets that lie beneath the surface.
Highlights
Once visitors have gathered at the meeting point, they’ll dive into the highlights of the Underground San Clemente Tour.
Participants can discover a Basilica situated near the iconic Colosseum, exploring one of the oldest Basilicas dating back to the 1st century AD. The tour guides will lead them through the three levels of the Basilica, where they’ll uncover a Mithraeum and the stunning Cosmatesque Pavement.
Along the way, they’ll admire the wonderful mosaics, frescoes, and the tomb of St. Cyril, providing a glimpse into the rich history and architecture of this remarkable site.
The Underground San Clemente Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the layers of Rome’s past, uncovering its hidden treasures.
Inclusions
The Underground San Clemente Tour includes a guided exploration of the Basilica’s three levels and entrance tickets for accessing these areas. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the wonders of this historic site, including the Mithraeum and the stunning Cosmatesque Pavement.
The tour highlights include:
- Visiting one of the oldest Basilicas dating back to the 1st century AD.
- Admiring the beautiful mosaics, frescoes, and the tomb of St. Cyril.
- Experiencing the different layers of history that have been preserved within the Basilica.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, participants can explore the rich history and architectural marvels of the Basilica of San Clemente.
Exclusions
The Underground San Clemente Tour doesn’t include transportation to the meeting point or food and beverages during the tour. Participants are responsible for making their own way to the meeting location in front of the Basilica of San Clemente.
Plus, the tour price doesn’t cover any meals or refreshments, so visitors will need to bring their own or purchase them separately. This allows the tour to focus solely on the fascinating underground history and architecture of the Basilica.
While the tour provides a comprehensive experience exploring the three levels of this ancient site, guests should plan accordingly for their transportation and sustenance needs during the one-hour journey.
Important Information
Participants need to bring identity documents for all members of their group, including minors, as these may be required for entry.
Plus, comfortable shoes and a jacket or shawl are recommended, especially for the lower level of the Basilica, as the temperature can be cooler underground.
It’s important to note that the tour is subject to weather conditions and scheduled liturgical events, so flexibility may be necessary.
On top of that, the tour isn’t suitable for those with claustrophobia or wheelchair users, as the underground levels may pose challenges for accessibility.
Key considerations for participants include:
- Bringing necessary identification documents
- Dressing appropriately for varying temperatures
- Being prepared for potential changes to the tour schedule
Exploring the Basilica
Visitors descend into the three levels of the Basilica of San Clemente, uncovering a wealth of historical and architectural wonders.
On the first level, they marvel at the well-preserved mosaics and frescoes adorning the walls, offering a glimpse into the Basilica’s vibrant past.
Venturing deeper, they explore the Mithraeum, a temple dedicated to the ancient Roman god Mithras, and admire the Cosmatesque Pavement, a stunning example of medieval Italian floor design.
The highlight of the tour is the tomb of St. Cyril, a revered figure in Christian history, nestled within the lower levels.
Each step of the journey through the Basilica’s multilayered past leaves visitors with a deeper appreciation for Rome’s rich cultural heritage.
Tour Duration
Spanning approximately one hour, the underground San Clemente tour takes guests on an immersive journey through the Basilica’s captivating multilevel history.
This concise yet comprehensive tour allows visitors to:
- Discover the ancient layers of the site, exploring the 1st century AD foundations.
- Uncover the hidden Mithraeum and admire the intricate Cosmatesque Pavement.
- Marvel at the stunning mosaics, frescoes, and the tomb of St. Cyril, all brought to life by the knowledgeable live guide.
The tour’s efficient duration ensures guests make the most of their time, providing a well-rounded and enriching experience without feeling rushed.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique glimpse into Rome’s past, the underground San Clemente tour delivers an unforgettable adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but visitors are advised to check with the tour guide for any specific restrictions or guidelines. Guests should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks Inside the Basilica?
Visitors are generally not allowed to bring food and drinks inside the Basilica of San Clemente. The tour information explicitly states that the tour "Excludes: Food and beverages". Visitors should refrain from consuming any edibles or drinks during the tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for the tour. Children of all ages are welcome to join, though the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the lower levels of the basilica.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no formal dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. It’s best to avoid revealing or overly casual attire out of respect for the religious nature of the site.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Unfortunately, the tour duration is fixed at 1 hour and can’t be extended. The tour company likely has a tight schedule to accommodate other groups. Extending the tour would require booking a separate or private tour at an additional cost.
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Recap
The Underground San Clemente Tour offers a captivating journey through time, allowing visitors to explore the layers of history hidden beneath Rome’s streets.
From the well-preserved mosaics and frescoes to the Mithraeum and the tomb of St. Cyril, this tour provides a unique opportunity to uncover the rich past of the Basilica, dating back to the 1st century AD.
A must-see for anyone seeking to explore Rome’s fascinating underground world.