Tour difficulty

  • Easy
  • Medium
  • Hard

Duration

3 hours

Rome Walking Tours: City Tours

Tour of the Vicus Caprarius

 

Uncovering the Secrets of Ancient Rome

Embark on a journey to the hidden depths of Rome with Your Own Italy’s “Tour of the Vicus Caprarius,” also known as the City of Water. This unique experience offers a fascinating exploration of an ancient Roman insula located beneath the bustling streets near the Trevi Fountain. Discovered during renovations in the late 20th century, the Vicus Caprarius is a remarkable archaeological site that reveals the complexity of Roman urban life and the ingenious water management systems that sustained the Eternal City. Led by an expert guide, this tour delves into the history, architecture, and daily routines of ancient Rome, offering a glimpse into a world that thrived over two millennia ago.

Uncovering the Secrets of Ancient Rome

Explore the Ancient Insula: The Vicus Caprarius was an ancient residential block, or insula, which housed apartments, shops, and a public bath complex. As you wander through the ruins, your guide will illuminate the architectural features and artifacts that offer insights into the lives of its inhabitants, from the wealthy elite to the common workers.

The City of Water: Learn about the site’s nickname, the City of Water, which derives from its intricate aqueduct system and the discovery of a large water reservoir. Understand how water was channeled, stored, and utilized in ancient Rome, highlighting the engineering prowess of the Romans and the importance of water in urban planning and public health.

Artifacts and Discoveries: The Vicus Caprarius is home to a variety of artifacts unearthed during excavations, including pottery, coins, and sculptures. Each piece tells a story, contributing to our understanding of Roman society, economy, and cultural practices.

Connection to the Trevi Fountain: Discover the connection between the Vicus Caprarius and the iconic Trevi Fountain located above. Learn about the Aqua Virgo, one of Rome’s ancient aqueducts, which supplied water to the Trevi Fountain and the surrounding area, illustrating the enduring legacy of Roman infrastructure.

Your Own Italy: A Gateway to Rome’s Hidden Past

Your Own Italy’s “Tour of the Vicus Caprarius” offers an intimate exploration of Rome’s ancient underbelly, revealing the layers of history that lie beneath the city’s modern facade. This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, archaeology buffs, and anyone fascinated by the mysteries of ancient Rome.

Ready to Explore the Depths of Ancient Rome?

Are you prepared to uncover the secrets of the Vicus Caprarius and walk in the footsteps of Rome’s ancient inhabitants? Contact Your Own Italy to customize your journey through the hidden layers of Rome, and prepare for an unforgettable exploration of the City of Water.

What's Included

Prepare for a captivating exploration of Vicus Caprarius, also known as the “City of Water,” an ancient Roman archaeological site located beneath Rome’s bustling Trevi district. This site offers a unique window into the past, revealing the day-to-day lives of Rome’s affluent citizens during the 1st century.

Subterranean Marvel: Discovered in the late 1990s, this hidden gem allows visitors to walk through the remnants of a luxurious Roman residential complex.

Artifacts Galore: The site boasts an array of artifacts unearthed during excavations, including terra-cotta figurines, African pottery, mosaic tiles, and a significant collection of coins, providing a tangible connection to the people who once lived there.

Water Connection: A standout feature of Vicus Caprarius is its enduring relationship with water. The complex includes ancient pools still fed by the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, illustrating the sophisticated engineering and importance of water in Roman society. This same aqueduct continues to supply water to the iconic Trevi Fountain, adding a layer of historical continuity to your visit.

This visit to Vicus Caprarius promises an unforgettable journey into Rome’s past, offering a unique perspective on the city’s ancient history and architectural prowess. Enjoy the opportunity to connect with the ancient world beneath the modern city streets.

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Tips for Your Tour

Engage with Your Guide: Your personal guide will offer invaluable insights into the site’s history, artifacts, and architecture. Don’t hesitate to ask questions to deepen your understanding of ancient Roman life.
Photography: Capture the essence of this archaeological site with your camera, keeping in mind any restrictions on flash photography to preserve the artifacts.
Trevi Fountain Tradition: After exploring Vicus Caprarius, consider visiting the Trevi Fountain. Knowing the connection between the two sites adds a special significance to the tradition of tossing a coin into the fountain’s waters.
Respectful Exploration: Many sites hold significant historical and emotional weight; a respectful demeanor is appreciated.
Comfortable Footwear: Be prepared for walking, including on uneven surfaces in historic areas.
Inquisitive Mindset: Bring your questions and curiosity. The rich history of Jewish Siracusa is most illuminating when engaged with actively.

Faq

Is there a dress code I should know about?
There is a dress code for churches and basilicas. Shoulders and knees must be covered; shorts, miniskirts, and sleeveless shirts are not permitted. It is also recommended that you not take large bags or backpacks on tours that include churches as you may not be permitted to enter and storage accommodations are not usually available.
What if there is bad weather?
Our tours operate rain or shine!
Is tipping customary in Italy?
Tipping is indeed customary in Italy ! It is considered a kind gesture and proper etiquette to leave “a little something extra” depending on the level of service you receive. For a private guide it is suggested to leave 15 – 25 euros for a typical 3-hour tour.
What happens after I’ve requested a booking through your website?
Your Own Italy will send a confirmation email within 24 hours of your booking. You will then be invited to make your payment using a link that will be provided.
Can wheelchair users go on this walking tour?
Not all walking tours are fully accessible for wheelchair users or those with walking disabilities. However, if anyone in your group requires special accommodation, please let us know when completing the booking and we will work out suitable alternative routes.
Can tours be modified?
Yes, we will do our best to adjust any tour to accommodate special requests.
How far in advance should I book my walking tour?
Tours should be booked 48 hours in advance. While we cannot guarantee availability if booking occurs in less than 48 hours, we will do our best to accommodate your request.
What are Your Own Italy’s payment terms?
Full payment is due when the tour confirmation email is sent, within 24 hours of your booking. You will be provided with a link to our payment page. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
What is your cancellation policy?
Tours must be canceled by email 24 hours prior to the start of the tour. If cancellation is made in less than this time, Your Own Italy cannot guarantee a full refund.
How do I amend a reservation?
Any changes to existing reservations must be requested by email. All efforts will be made to accommodate changes, but they cannot be guaranteed.
What should I do if I have a larger group than the size suggested on the website?
Your Own Italy is delighted to accommodate large groups. Please specify the number in your party when booking, and every effort will be made to organize a tour within the time limits provided.

Meeting Point

Please specify when booking whether you would prefer to meet your private guide at your accommodations or at a designated point near the highlights of the tour.

Duration Of Tour

Walking Tours last approximately 3 hours unless otherwise specified.
Tour times are average – some groups prefer a more leisurely pace with fewer sites, with your private guide, this is your option.