Embark on a captivating exploration of an ancient underground pagan shrine and four impressive ecclesiastical structures to comprehend the inception of Christianity. Witness actual artifacts from Christ’s Crucifixion and earth derived from the Holy Land.
Embark on a captivating exploration of an ancient underground pagan shrine and four impressive ecclesiastical structures to comprehend the inception of Christianity. Witness actual artifacts from Christ’s Crucifixion and earth derived from the Holy Land.
- Basilica of San Clemente - Experience an intriguing exploration beneath St. Clement’s Basilica, located just a short distance from the Colosseum. Discover three layers of ancient structures stacked upon one another, and delve into the history of forgotten pagan rituals, early Christianity, and mystical symbolism. Visit the best-preserved Temple of…
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Basilica of San Clemente - Experience an intriguing exploration beneath St. Clement’s Basilica, located just a short distance from the Colosseum. Discover three layers of ancient structures stacked upon one another, and delve into the history of forgotten pagan rituals, early Christianity, and mystical symbolism. Visit the best-preserved Temple of Mithras and feel the underground river that flows beneath Rome’s streets and the Colosseum. Admire ancient mosaics and the narratives they depict, all while enjoying the intimacy of a small group limited to 10 people.
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Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano - After learning about paganism, early persecutions, and martyrs, take a stroll to the Cathedral of Rome, the Basilica of St. John Lateran, and discover why it is called the “Mother and head of all churches on Earth.” Be captivated by the stunning golden interior and ancient frescoes, and hear about Emperor Constantine and his decision to legalize Christianity in 313.
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Scala Santa and Chapel of San Lorenzo - Discover the story of the Emperor’s mother, St. Helena, and her pilgrimage to Jerusalem to retrieve sacred artifacts, protected by the early underground church in the Holy Land. Among these, view the Holy Stairs, the original steps of the praetorium that Jesus ascended during his judgment.
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Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme - Conclude your journey at the church constructed with soil from the Holy Land, the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem. Here, see the other Holy Relics preserved by Helena, including a nail from the Crucifixion, the walnut board Pontius Pilate placed above the cross, and the wood of the Cross on which Jesus was crucified. Also, view fragments of the wall from the cave of the nativity in Bethlehem and two thorns from the crown of the Passion of Christ.
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Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore - Opt to extend your exploration to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, where breathtaking mosaics and sacred relics provide insight into the church’s significance in Christian history.

- Live professional guide
- Entrance fees
- Headsets to hear your guide clearly
- All fees and taxes
- Live professional guide
- Entrance fees
- Headsets to hear your guide clearly
- All fees and taxes
- Optional gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Optional gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Please be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the tour starts in order to complete the signup and setup the headsets.
- An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes: a moderate amount of walking is involved.
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This tour is not wheelchair-accessible.
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- Please be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the tour starts in order to complete the signup and setup the headsets.
- An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes: a moderate amount of walking is involved.
- This tour is not wheelchair-accessible.
- This tour is subject to weather conditions and/or liturgic-calendar events. If canceled you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.
- Not recommended for people with claustrophobia
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.