Roma sotterranea: siti sotto la superficie

Uncover a hidden world beneath Rome’s bustling streets, revealing layers of history and fascinating secrets. Here’s a guide to some of the most intriguing underground sites:

Basilica di San Clemente: A Journey Through Time

• What it is: This unique basilica is built upon layers of history. Descend from the 12th-century upper basilica through a 4th-century church, a 2nd-century Mithraic temple (dedicated to the Persian sun god Mithras), and finally, 1st-century Roman buildings. You can even hear the water flowing from an ancient aqueduct. It’s a journey through over 2000 years of Roman history.
• Why it’s special: Unlike other sites, San Clemente offers a tangible, multi-layered experience, allowing you to physically walk through different eras of Rome’s past. The Mithraeum is particularly well-preserved.
• How to visit: The basilica is located at Piazza San Clemente, a short walk from the Colosseum. Check the official website (https://www.basilicasanclemente.com/eng/) for opening hours and to book tickets for the excavations. Walks Inside Rome also offers tours that include the Basilica di San Clemente.

Domus Aurea: Nero’s Golden House

• What it is: The Domus Aurea (“Golden House” in Latin) was an extravagant palace built by Emperor Nero after the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD. It was a vast complex that included gardens, an artificial lake (where the Colosseum now stands), and opulent rooms adorned with frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures. After Nero’s death, it was largely buried and built over by subsequent emperors.
• Why it’s special: The Domus Aurea offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of one of Rome’s most infamous emperors. The surviving frescoes and architectural elements are remarkable, and the ongoing excavations continue to reveal new discoveries.
• How to visit: The Domus Aurea has limited access due to ongoing restoration. Check the official website or reputable tour operators for information on guided tours and booking.

The Catacombs: Ancient Burial Grounds

• What they are: Extensive underground burial networks used by early Christians and Jews in Rome, primarily from the 2nd to 5th centuries AD. They consist of narrow tunnels lined with burial niches (loculi), chambers (cubicula), and sometimes frescoes and mosaics.
• Why they’re special: The catacombs offer a unique insight into early Christian art, beliefs, and funerary practices during a time when Christianity was not yet openly practiced.
• Which to visit: Only a few of Rome’s 60+ catacombs are open to the public. The most popular and easily accessible are:
  • Catacombs of Callixtus: One of the largest and most important, with the tombs of many early Popes.
  • Catacombs of St. Sebastian: One of the oldest, with well-preserved architecture.
  • Catacombs of Domitilla: A sprawling network with impressive frescoes.
  • Catacombs of Priscilla: Famous for early Christian art, including what is believed to be the oldest image of the Virgin Mary.
• How to visit: The catacombs are located outside the city center, primarily along the Appian Way. All visits are guided, and it’s recommended to book tours in advance. You can find tours through various online platforms.

Tips for Exploring Underground Rome

• Book Tours in Advance: Especially for the Domus Aurea and catacombs, booking guided tours in advance is highly recommended, as entry is often restricted and tickets sell out quickly.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, often in dimly lit conditions.
• Bring a Light Source: While some sites are illuminated, a small flashlight pen can be helpful for seeing details.
• Dress Appropriately: The catacombs are religious sites, so dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). The underground temperature can be cool, even in summer, so bring a light sweater or jacket.
• Consider a Combo Pass: If you plan to visit multiple underground sites, check for combo passes or tour packages that offer discounted entry.

Enjoy your exploration of Rome’s fascinating underworld!