Explore Ancient Rome Beneath the Surface: Roman Houses & San Clemente Basilica

Roman Era Houses and the Basilica of San Clemente

Roman Era Houses and the Basilica of San Clemente

Beneath the Layers of Time: Roman Houses & the Basilica of San Clemente

Uncover the hidden layers of Rome on a fascinating tour that peels back the centuries to reveal the city’s ancient heart. This journey through Roman-era house and the extraordinary Basilica of San Clemente is not just a walk through ruins—it's a descent into history itself, where each level brings you deeper into the story of the Eternal City!

A Hidden World Below the Surface

Begin your exploration in a quiet corner near the Colosseum, where beneath a modern street lies a remarkably preserved complex of ancient Roman houses. Step into a world that once bustled with life—corridors, frescoed rooms, and inner courtyards where everyday Romans lived, worked, and worshipped. Among the ruins are remnants of a Mithraeum, a mysterious underground sanctuary dedicated to the god Mithras, with its altar still intact, offering a glimpse into the private rituals of an ancient cult.

As you walk through these subterranean chambers, soft lighting and the hush of the earth create a powerful sense of intimacy with the past. It’s not hard to imagine the footsteps of Roman citizens echoing where you now stand!

San Clemente: A Basilica in Three Dimensions

Just steps away rises the Basilica of San Clemente, a living testament to Rome’s layered soul. At street level, the 12th-century church is a masterpiece of medieval architecture, adorned with vibrant mosaics and intricate marble inlays. But its true wonder lies beneath.

Descend into the lower levels to discover a 4th-century church, its faded frescoes and solemn spaces once echoing with the prayers of early Christians. Deeper still lies a 1st-century Roman home and pagan temple, complete with running water from an ancient spring. The transition from pagan to Christian, from imperial Rome to medieval faith, unfolds tangibly before your eyes—an archaeological time capsule carved into stone!

A City Revealed in Layers

This tour offers an extraordinary perspective on Rome—not from above, but from within. From the intimate corners of Roman homes to the soaring mosaics of a medieval basilica, you’ll walk through 2,000 years of living history, all held within a single block.

For travelers who seek to understand Rome beyond its monuments, this experience reveals the city’s most profound truth: that beneath every step lies another story, another world, waiting to be uncovered!

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Tour
3 hours
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Physical level
Medium
Difficulty of Tour
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This tour involves walking and standing for extended periods. While most routes are accessible, some areas may include stairs or uneven surfaces. If you have mobility concerns, please let us know at the time of booking, and we will provide guidance on suitability and alternatives.

Meeting Point
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The exact meeting point for this tour will be confirmed upon booking. Locations may vary depending on tour logistics, but all details, including directions and arrival time, will be provided in your confirmation email.

Duration of Tour
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The duration of this tour may vary slightly based on the itinerary and selected experience. Estimated tour length will be provided at the time of booking, and final details will be communicated in your confirmation.

Schedule 30 minutes call with Carmen
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Best trip ever!
We would like to sincerely thank Carmen and her team for the wonderful two week itinerary planned for us in Italy as well as your dedication and constant communication in keeping us always informed with our tour guides and drivers.
Being that this was our first time traveling to Italy, Your Own Italy made our hotel (beautiful hotels) , transportation, and tour reservations for us which made our trip stress free where we could relax and enjoy our time. All the private drivers and AP Tour Guides were wonderful, gracious, very knowledgeable and informative. We really enjoyed them and learned a lot from them.
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