Underground Rome
A half-day tour discovering hidden Roman ruins
- WITH
- Paolo | about the guide
80% of ancient Rome still exists under the city’s surface. After the fall of the empire, the city’s numerous occupants recycled and appropriated much of the infrastructure left behind. This tour will take you back in time to discover some of the city’s hidden architectural treasures. As you step down the stairs of the mediaeval Basilica of St. Clement, you will be transported to 1st century AD as you admire the fascinating ruins of a 5th century church built on the remains of a wealthy Roman villa (later transformed into a shrine) and what is thought to be the former imperial mint. At Santi Giovanni e Paolo church, you will then discover a well preserved portion of Roman road and what seems to have been a primitive meeting place for Christians. To finish your underground experience, you will head over to the Trevi Fountain, where archeologists found the ruins of a 1st century AD Roman apartment block later transformed in a villa and also a large water cistern used to store the water supplied by the Aqua Virgo aqueduct commissioned in 19 BC by Agrippa. As you walk between these three underground sites, you will also catch glimpses of iconic Rome monuments including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and Imperial Forums.
(1 reviews)
-
Rome
Italy -
3 hrs
DURATION -
15
MAX. No. ON TOUR
TOUR DETAILS
- keywords :
- transport :
- By foot and by public transport/taxi (if you would prefer private transport, please arrange with the guide in advance)
- ACTIVITY LEVEL :
- Moderate
- ACCESSIBLE TO THE DISABLED :
- no
- Kid friendly :
- Not suitable for children (please refer to guide's profile for family-friendly tours)
- LANGUAGES:
- Français/French (Middle), Anglais/English (fluent), Italien/Italian (native)
- MAX. No. OF PEOPLE :
- 15
INCLUDED IN THE TOUR
- Services of a professional tour guide - Hotel pick-up - Entrance fees (Basilica of St Clement, houses under Santi Giovanni e Paolo, underground visit near Trevi Fountain)
NOT INCLUDED
- Transport - Refreshments and other purchases during the tour
ITINERARY
This underground tour begins at the medieval Basilica of St Clement, home to the ruins of an old church built on the remains of a wealthy Roman house. Next stop? The houses and Roman road network under Santi Giovanni e Paolo. To finish off you will visit the famous Trevi Fountain to discover the remains of a roman villa and water cistern. Because of the opening times of the sites, this tour can only be arranged from Friday to Sunday (Sunday, afternoon only).
WHERE AND WHEN?
- MEET-UP LOCATION:
- Colosseo metro station
- END OF TOUR LOCATION:
- Trevi Fountain
about
your guide
Paolo
Rome
- languages :
- Français/French, Anglais/English, Italien/Italian
Originally from Rome, I was an archaeologist for more than ten years before deciding to set aside the dusty books and archives and work with people, using my skills to show Rome to the incoming visitors. I have always loved being in contact with people and this change of career makes me really happy. On the side, I have also been a cub scout leader for 5 years and I enjoy working with families, children and teenagers alike. One of my favorite moments is when I see children's eyes lighting up and when they ask interesting questions during my tours. I also love bringing my clients to local places to enjoy some food and drinks. It is always enjoyable to break the ice and get to know each other. My speciality as a guide is Ancient Rome but I also like to talk about the Baroque and Renaissance periods of the city.
See all tours of this guide1 reviews
average rate :
- UTF
- France - 23.03.2017
"As a gift to my grandson, for his University graduation, we spent 7 days in Rome. Finding Paolo through the internet was a true blessing for our trip. We began with a walking tour of the old city to orientate ourselves. Day 2 Ancient Rome, starting at the Colosseum. With Paolo’s narration, we were able to see the games and feel the terror of the competitors as the animals milled around waiting to be released. We learned little known facts about games as well as the Forum and surrounding area. Day 3, was the underground tour. We had heard little about this before going to Rome. It defiantly should not be missed when visiting Rome. Day 4, the Vatican tour, Sistine Chapel. Having the ceiling explained in detail by Paolo, gave us a new insight to Michelangelo and what the meaning of all the paintings stood for. Day 5, the Borghese Gallery. It would take a week to admire and appreciate everything. With Paolo’s expertise we were able to see the most outstanding pieces in the 2 short hours our ticket allowed us. Then we were off for a tour of Ostia Antica. Paolo worked here many years as an archaeologist, so he was able to tell us things other guides may not know about the area. Our trip of a life time was made perfect by having Paolo show us his Rome. He was patient, kind, very articulate and flexible. I wouldn’t dream of coming back to Rome without having him to guide us to more wonderful sights. Thank you again, Paolo." – Mars 2017 Jada and Nathaniel – USA