Rome Catacombs and Crypts Guided Tour

This tour of the Crypts and Catacombs of Rome offers a unique insight into the underground places that marked the history of the Eternal City. The tour, lasting about 3.5 hours, starts in Piazza Barberini, where the expert guide will provide an introduction to the historical and cultural context of the crypts and catacombs. From the outset, an insight into the role these sites played in the religious and social life of ancient Rome is presented.

The first stop is the Crypt of the Capuchins, known for its unconventional decoration: the walls and ceilings are adorned with the bones of some 4,000 Capuchin monks. This crypt is not only a place of eternal rest, but also a remarkable example of the symbolic relationship the Capuchin monks had with life and death, using human elements to create an environment of contemplation. Here you will also have the opportunity to see the Capuchin Museum which houses Caravaggio's work, "St. Francis in Meditation".

The tour then continues by bus to the Christian Catacombs, located on the outskirts of Rome. These are the Catacombs of Domitilla, St. Callixtus and St. Seabastian. Here, visitors explore a labyrinth of underground tunnels that were excavated almost 2,000 years ago. The catacombs are a showcase of early Christian art, with frescoes and symbols that provide insight into the life of the early Christian communities in Rome.

The last stop is at the Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere, a church built on the ruins of three ancient Roman temples. Participants will be able to see the ancient columns and structural elements that have been integrated into the basilica, demonstrating how Rome has evolved over the centuries, incorporating different eras and architectural styles in one place. Please note that in order to optimise the tour the order of the visits may vary.

This tour is ideal for those who wish to understand Rome from its historical roots, exploring places that were fundamental to the spiritual life of its inhabitants. It is an informative and detailed tour that allows you to appreciate the complex history of Rome, combining visits to historical sites with explanations by a specialised guide.