Chiesa di San Clemente
Step back in time at Basilica di San Clemente, a multi-layered marvel revealing Rome's history from ancient Roman homes to medieval churches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Chiesa di San Clemente
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Basilica di San Clemente, a multi-layered marvel revealing Rome's history from ancient Roman homes to medieval churches.
"It's practically as close to time travel as we can get."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your tickets for the lower levels in advance to skip lines and guarantee entry.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and descending stairs, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 12th-Century Basilica
Upper Level
Marvel at the stunning mosaics and intricate artwork of the upper church, a testament to medieval Roman architecture.
The 4th-Century Church
Middle Level
Descend to the foundations of an earlier Christian basilica, where ancient frescoes hint at the site's long religious past.
The Roman House & Mithraeum
Lowest Level
Explore the remains of a 1st-century Roman domus and a mysterious temple dedicated to the god Mithras, offering a glimpse into ancient Roman life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Layers of History
+1Timing is Key for Exploration
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the historical significance without the crowds. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your tickets for the lower levels in advance to skip lines and guarantee entry.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and descending stairs, so comfortable footwear is a must.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! Give yourself at least 1.5-2 hours to fully explore all three historical layers.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in warmer months, bring water as you explore the underground levels.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your tickets for the lower levels in advance to skip lines and guarantee entry.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and descending stairs, so comfortable footwear is a must.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! Give yourself at least 1.5-2 hours to fully explore all three historical layers.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in warmer months, bring water as you explore the underground levels.
🧐 Look for Details
The frescoes and artifacts tell stories; take your time to observe the intricate details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently amazed by the Basilica di San Clemente's unique multi-layered history, describing it as a journey through time. The intricate mosaics in the upper church and the fascinating archaeological discoveries in the lower levels are major highlights. Some visitors note that the posted opening times can be inaccurate, leading to disappointment if not checked carefully.
"Google's posted opening time is way off, see posted opening time photo taken from the front door."
Neo Tim
"I went there but it was closef even though it was said that it should be open"
Lennart Pettersson
"YES! Architecture, art, history...have your pick. What a place to be quiet and restful."
Tien Eng
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Basilica di San Clemente is conveniently located near the Colosseum. You can easily reach it by metro (Line B, Cavour station) or by bus. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from other major Roman landmarks.
The upper basilica is accessible, but exploring the lower levels involves stairs. If mobility is a concern, focus on the beautiful upper church.
They are very close, just a short walk apart. Many visitors combine a visit to both sites in one outing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The upper basilica is free to enter. However, a ticket is required to access the lower levels (the 4th-century church and the 1st-century Roman house/Mithraeum).
Tickets for the excavations can be purchased on-site. It's highly recommended to book online in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to avoid long queues.
Opening hours can vary. Generally, the upper basilica is open daily, while the excavations have specific hours, often closing earlier in the afternoon. Always check the official website for the most current information.
Yes, there are reduced ticket prices for certain groups, including children up to 16 accompanied by parents and individuals with disabilities and their companions.
You can visit the beautiful upper basilica for free. However, to explore the fascinating archaeological layers beneath, a ticket is necessary.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Its most unique feature is its incredible stratification of history. You literally walk through centuries, from a medieval church down to ancient Roman structures.
To fully appreciate all three levels, plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. Rushing through the excavations would diminish the experience.
You'll discover a 4th-century basilica with ancient frescoes, a 1st-century Roman house, and a temple dedicated to Mithras, complete with an altar and a well.
Photography is generally allowed in the upper basilica, but restrictions may apply in the excavated areas. It's best to check for signage or ask staff.
Yes, guided tours can enhance your understanding of the site's complex history. Some visitors have booked tours through platforms like GetYourGuide.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the basilica is located in a vibrant area of Rome with many dining options. You can find trattorias, pizzerias, and cafes within walking distance. +1
Expect classic Roman cuisine, from pasta dishes to pizza and seafood. Many places offer outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the Roman atmosphere. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The mosaics in the upper basilica are stunning. The atmospheric underground levels, with their ancient stonework and dim lighting, offer unique photographic challenges and rewards.
The lighting can be dim, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be helpful. Be mindful of other visitors and any photography restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The idea of exploring an ancient Roman house and a secret temple can capture a child's imagination. Tips for families:
* Book tickets online to save time waiting with impatient kids.
* Bring snacks and water, as exploring can take a while.
* Focus on the story: Frame the visit as a treasure hunt through history. Talk about Roman soldiers and ancient gods to make it engaging.
* Manage expectations: The lower levels can be dimly lit and have uneven surfaces, so keep a close eye on younger children.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
+1 The opportunity to walk through a 1st-century Roman domus and a Mithraeum, then ascend to a 4th-century church and finally a 12th-century basilica, provides an unparalleled understanding of Roman urbanism and religious history. Key highlights for history buffs:
* The stratification: The distinct layers of construction are a primary draw, offering a visual timeline of the site's transformation.
* The Mithraeum: A rare and well-preserved example of a Mithraic temple, offering insights into a significant mystery cult.
* The frescoes: The early Christian frescoes in the 4th-century church are invaluable for art historians and those interested in religious iconography.
* The Roman house: Explore the layout and features of a typical Roman dwelling from the imperial period.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Layers of San Clemente
+1 Visitors can descend through distinct historical periods, experiencing the evolution of the site over nearly two millennia. This multi-layered structure makes it one of the most fascinating historical sites in Rome, offering a tangible connection to the past. Your exploration begins in the upper basilica, consecrated in the 12th century. This level boasts stunning medieval mosaics, particularly in the apse, depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Tree of Life. The architecture itself is a beautiful example of Romanesque design. As you move downwards, you enter the lower basilica, dating back to the 4th century. This earlier church was built over even older structures and contains well-preserved frescoes that offer insights into early Christian art and liturgy.
The deepest level reveals the site's pagan origins: a 1st-century Roman domus (house) and a temple dedicated to Mithras. This Mithraeum, a secret cult popular among Roman soldiers, features an altar and a fascinating underground water source.
+1 Exploring these ancient Roman remains provides a unique perspective on the religious and social life of the city before Christianity became dominant. The juxtaposition of these different eras, one atop the other, is what makes San Clemente a truly unforgettable experience. Understanding the Mithraeum
The cult centered around the god Mithras, who was depicted as slaying a bull, a scene often found in the temples dedicated to him.Visiting the Mithraeum at San Clemente offers a rare glimpse into this ancient, secretive practice. You can see the altar where rituals were performed and imagine the clandestine gatherings that took place in this subterranean space. The presence of a water source within the temple complex is also significant, as water played a crucial role in purification rituals within many ancient mystery cults.
The stark contrast between this pagan temple and the Christian basilicas built above it powerfully illustrates the religious shifts that occurred in Rome over centuries. 
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