Basilica of San Clemente, Rome, Italy - En franchissant le seuil de l'église São Domingos, je pénètre dans un espace marqué par les stigmates de l'incendie dévastateur du 13 août 1959. Malgré les cicatrices encore visibles de cette catastrophe, l'église conserve toute sa grandeur et sa spiritualité, continuant d'accueillir les fidèles qui s'y rassemblent régulièrement pour prier et célébrer leur foi.
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Basilica of San Clemente Rome

4.7
·7k reviews·Roma, Italy

Step back in time at San Clemente, a church built over a 4th-century church and a 1st-century Roman house with a Mithraic temple.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Basilica of San Clemente, Rome, Italy - En franchissant le seuil de l'église São Domingos, je pénètre dans un espace marqué par les stigmates de l'incendie dévastateur du 13 août 1959. Malgré les cicatrices encore visibles de cette catastrophe, l'église conserve toute sa grandeur et sa spiritualité, continuant d'accueillir les fidèles qui s'y rassemblent régulièrement pour prier et célébrer leur foi.

Basilica of San Clemente Rome

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at San Clemente, a church built over a 4th-century church and a 1st-century Roman house with a Mithraic temple.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"It's practically as close to time travel as we can get in Rome!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Underground Tickets

Reserve your spot for the underground excavations online in advance; they're not always available on reseller apps.

🚶‍♀️ Walk from the Colosseum

It's just a short, easy walk from the Colosseum, making it a perfect combo visit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Underground Levels

The Underground Levels

Subterranean levels

Descend through millennia, from a medieval basilica to a 4th-century church and a 1st-century Roman house with a Mithraic temple.

TikTokReddit
12th-Century Basilica

12th-Century Basilica

Upper church

Marvel at the stunning medieval architecture and beautiful frescoes that adorn the main basilica.

TikTokInstagram
Mithraic Temple

Mithraic Temple

Lowest level

Explore the ancient temple dedicated to the god Mithras, a fascinating glimpse into Roman paganism.

Reddit+1

Planning Your Visit

Uncover Rome's Layers

Experience Rome's history like never before at the Basilica of San Clemente. This unique site offers a journey through time, descending from a 12th-century basilica to a 4th-century church and a 1st-century Roman house with a Mithraic temple. Book tickets online in advance to secure your spot, especially for the underground levels, as tours can fill up. TikTokReddit

Proximity to the Colosseum

Conveniently located just a short walk from the Colosseum, the Basilica of San Clemente is an ideal addition to your ancient Rome itinerary. Many visitors combine a visit here with the Colosseum and Roman Forum, making it a perfect half-day exploration. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good for exploring levels
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Stepping into Basilica di San Clemente in Rome isn’t just visiting a church it’s practically as close to time travel as we can get. You start in a stunning 12th-century basilica and as you descend un...
@byjacklynn
167.2K likes • 753.5K views

🎟️ Book Underground Tickets

Reserve your spot for the underground excavations online in advance; they're not always available on reseller apps. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk from the Colosseum

It's just a short, easy walk from the Colosseum, making it a perfect combo visit. TikTokInstagram

How to visit ⤵️ This is San Clemente basilica, a hidden gem only 5mins walk from the Colosseum And such a super “lasagna” of history! 😜 ➡️ To visit the basilica you can book your ticket online on thei...
@livevirtualguide
16.8K likes • 304.5K views
How to visit ⤵️ This is San Clemente basilica, a hidden gem only 5mins walk from the Colosseum And such a super “lasagna” of history! 😜 ➡️ To visit the basilica you can book your ticket online on t...
livevirtualguide
17.9K likes • 619K views

⏳ Allow ample time

Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to fully explore all three historical layers. Reddit

💡 Look for inscriptions

Don't miss the Saint Clement and Sisinnius inscription in the lower levels! Reddit

Stepping into Basilica di San Clemente in Rome isn’t just visiting a church it’s practically as close to time travel as we can get. You start in a stunning 12th-century basilica and as you descend u...
byjacklynn
65K likes • 647K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Underground Tickets

Reserve your spot for the underground excavations online in advance; they're not always available on reseller apps. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk from the Colosseum

It's just a short, easy walk from the Colosseum, making it a perfect combo visit. TikTokInstagram

⏳ Allow ample time

Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to fully explore all three historical layers. Reddit

💡 Look for inscriptions

Don't miss the Saint Clement and Sisinnius inscription in the lower levels! Reddit

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and descending stairs, so comfy footwear is key. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Basilica of San Clemente as a hidden gem and a profound historical experience, often calling it a 'must-see' for its unique layered structure. The journey through millennia from the upper basilica to the ancient Roman house and Mithraic temple is frequently highlighted as a captivating highlight. Some minor drawbacks include potential restrictions on photography in the lower levels and the need to book underground access in advance.

"A hidden gem just a few blocks from the colosseum. Moving through the different churches and then the ancient home was such a unique and awesome experience. The story of the basilica is so interesting as well. So happy we made the time to go (and being underground was a nice break from the intense summer afternoon heat) and see this lesser-known basilica."

Courtney C

"Awesome place to visit, especially on a warm day as a lot of it is underground.
Such a beautiful church, and very interesting underneath.
You save a couple of euro if you purchase tickets online (but they also let you know this if you arrive without one)."

Li Mac

"Wow. The atmosphere here is really peculliar. Not a really popular place, but it deserves hype. The vibes there are immaculate. The basilica is absolutely stunning. Only 5€ to visit. 45 minutes is perfect to visit it. Buy tickets at the basilica, not before. Nobody cares about the dresscode sadly so don't bother."

Brochachos

What People Like

Incredible layered history
Journey through time
Mithraic temple discovery

What People Dislike

Photography restrictions
Need for advance booking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Basilica of San Clemente is conveniently located near the Colosseum. You can easily reach it by taking the Metro Line B to the 'Colosseo' station and walking for about 5 minutes. Many visitors also walk from the Roman Forum. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Basilica of San Clemente is very close to the Colosseum, just about 300 meters away, making it an easy addition to your sightseeing day. InstagramReddit

The most convenient way is by Metro Line B to the Colosseo stop. Alternatively, you can walk from nearby attractions like the Colosseum or the Roman Forum. TikTok

Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk from the Roman Forum, taking around 10-15 minutes, allowing you to soak in more of the ancient city. Reddit

Yes, several bus lines stop near the Colosseum area, which is a short walk from the basilica. Check local bus routes for the most direct options. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for the underground levels are typically around €10. It's best to check the official basilica website for the most current pricing and to book in advance. Reddit

While you might be able to get tickets on arrival, it's highly recommended to book your tickets for the underground excavations online in advance to secure your spot, as tours can fill up. Reddit

A ticket typically grants access to the upper basilica and the fascinating underground levels, including the 4th-century church and the 1st-century Roman house with the Mithraic temple. Reddit

The basilica generally opens around 9:00 AM and closes around 6:00 PM, with the last entry to the underground levels often an hour before closing. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours. Reddit

The upper basilica is often free to enter and explore, but access to the historical underground levels requires a paid ticket. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find a stunning 12th-century basilica with beautiful frescoes. The real magic is below, with a 4th-century church and a 1st-century Roman house containing a Mithraic temple. TikTokReddit

To fully appreciate all three levels, plan for at least 1 to 2 hours. The descent and exploration of the underground layers are particularly time-consuming. Reddit

Absolutely! It's considered a hidden gem and a 'must-see' by many visitors for its unique layered history, offering a tangible connection to Rome's past. Reddit+1

This refers to the basilica's incredible layered structure, with each level representing a different historical period, much like the layers of a lasagna. TikTok

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to fully understand the historical significance of each layer. You can often book these through the basilica's official website. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in the upper basilica, but it's often restricted in the underground levels to preserve the ancient structures and atmosphere. Always check for signage. TikTok

The upper basilica's mosaics and frescoes are stunning. In the underground, the ancient walls and the Mithraic temple offer unique, atmospheric shots, though lighting can be dim. Instagram

Photography rules can vary, but it's common for flash photography to be prohibited in the underground areas to protect the delicate ancient remains. TikTok

A camera with good low-light performance is ideal, especially for the underground levels. A wide-angle lens can also be helpful for capturing the confined spaces. Instagram

Yes, drone photography is strictly prohibited in and around historical sites in Rome, including the Basilica of San Clemente. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the area around the basilica, being close to the Colosseum, has many restaurants and trattorias. You can find options ranging from casual to more formal dining. Reddit

Naumachia is a popular choice nearby, known for good food and service. Giulia & Sisto Roma Terrazza San Clemente offers rooftop dining with views. Reddit

While there isn't typically a cafe directly within the basilica complex, there are usually cafes and eateries in the immediate vicinity. Reddit

You'll find traditional Roman cuisine, including pasta dishes like cacio e pepe and carbonara, as well as pizza and other Italian specialties. Reddit

Trattoria Vecchia Roma is a well-regarded option in the area, known for its authentic Roman dishes. It's worth checking recent reviews. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Basilica of San Clemente offers a unique educational experience for families. The concept of 'layers of history' can be made exciting for children, likening it to a treasure hunt through time. TikTok The underground levels, with their ancient walls and the mysterious Mithraic temple, are particularly captivating for younger visitors. Reddit

Tips for families:
* Book tickets in advance to avoid queues. Reddit
* Explain the 'lasagna' concept to make the history engaging. TikTok
* Bring a small flashlight if allowed, as some areas can be dimly lit, adding to the adventure. Instagram
* Focus on the most visually striking elements like frescoes and the temple altar to keep children interested. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Basilica of San Clemente is an unparalleled destination. Its three distinct historical layers provide a tangible journey through Roman civilization, from pagan rituals to early Christian worship and medieval art. Reddit+1 The site offers a rare opportunity to see the physical evolution of a sacred space over centuries, making it a prime location for understanding Roman urban development and religious transitions. Reddit

Key highlights for history buffs:
* The Mithraeum: Explore the well-preserved temple dedicated to Mithras, offering insights into Roman mystery cults. Reddit
* 4th-Century Basilica: Examine the early Christian architecture and surviving frescoes. Reddit
* 12th-Century Basilica: Admire the medieval art, including the stunning apse mosaic. Instagram
* Inscriptions: Seek out the Saint Clement and Sisinnius inscription for linguistic and historical context. Reddit

🚶 Day-Trippers from Colosseum

If you're visiting the Colosseum, the Basilica of San Clemente is an unmissable, easily accessible addition to your itinerary. It's just a short walk away, making it a perfect way to spend an extra hour or two delving into Rome's rich past without venturing far. TikTokInstagram

Quick visit tips:
* Prioritize the underground levels as they are the most unique feature. TikTok
* Book tickets online beforehand to save time. Reddit
* Allow about 1.5 hours for a focused visit to all levels. Reddit
* Combine it with your Colosseum and Roman Forum visit for a comprehensive ancient Rome experience. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The 'Lasagna' of History

The Basilica of San Clemente is renowned for its incredible stratification of history, often described as a 'lasagna' of time. TikTok Visitors begin in the 12th-century basilica, a beautiful example of medieval Roman architecture adorned with stunning frescoes and mosaics. This upper church stands as a testament to the artistic and religious fervor of its era. Instagram

Descending below, you enter the 4th-century basilica, which was the original church built on the site. This level offers a glimpse into early Christian Rome, with remnants of frescoes and a more austere, yet still impressive, architectural style. It's a tangible link to a period when Christianity was solidifying its place in the Roman Empire. Reddit

Even deeper still lies the 1st-century Roman complex. This includes a Roman house and, most notably, a temple dedicated to the god Mithras, known as a Mithraeum. This subterranean level provides a fascinating insight into Roman paganism and daily life before Christianity dominated, complete with an altar and the remnants of the temple's structure. Reddit+1

Navigating Your Visit

Planning your visit to the Basilica of San Clemente is key to experiencing its full historical depth. While the upper basilica is often accessible without a ticket, the real draw – the underground levels – requires a separate admission. Reddit It's highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance through the basilica's official website, as these tours can sell out and are not always available through third-party resellers. Reddit

When exploring the subterranean layers, wear comfortable shoes as you'll be navigating uneven surfaces and stairs. Reddit The lighting in the lower levels can be dim, so a camera with good low-light capabilities will be beneficial for capturing the atmospheric details, though flash photography is typically prohibited. Instagram Allow at least 1-2 hours for your visit to properly absorb the history across all three distinct levels. Reddit

Historical Significance

The Basilica of San Clemente is a remarkable archaeological site that showcases the continuous evolution of Roman history and architecture. Its construction layers represent distinct periods, from the Republic era through the early Christian and medieval periods. Reddit The presence of a Mithraeum, a temple dedicated to the Persian god Mithras, highlights the religious diversity of ancient Rome and the eventual triumph of Christianity. TikTokReddit

This site is not just a church; it's a living museum that allows visitors to walk through different eras of Roman life. The discovery of the lower levels in the 19th century revealed a wealth of historical artifacts and structures, including a Roman house, a Mithraic temple, and an early Christian basilica, all preserved beneath the current church. Reddit The famous Saint Clement and Sisinnius inscription, dating from the late 11th century, is also located here, offering linguistic and historical insights. Reddit

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