Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere

Overview

The Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere is a historic church in Rome, built on the site of three ancient Roman temples. It is dedicated to Saint Nicholas and is notable for its unique blend of ancient and medieval architecture.

The basilica is significant for its archaeological layers, showcasing the evolution of religious architecture in Rome from ancient temples to a medieval church.

Religious Historical

Location

Address

Via del Teatro di Marcello 46, Rome

Neighborhood: Monti

Coordinates

41.890200, 12.483800

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free (donations welcome)

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• Easter celebrations
• spring blossoms

summer

hot

• Extended visiting hours
• outdoor concerts

autumn

cool to mild

• Autumn foliage
• harvest festivals

winter

cold

• Christmas decorations
• holiday lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Dress appropriately for a religious site
Check for any temporary closures

What to Bring

essential

comfortable shoes camera water bottle

seasonal

jacket umbrella sunhat

not allowed

large backpacks drones weapons

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate (some uneven surfaces and stairs)

• uneven surfaces
• stairs
• crowds

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

credit cards, debit cards, cash

Currency

Euro

Typical Costs

entry Free (donations welcome)

audio guide €5

guided tour €10

souvenirs €5-€20

Dress Code

modest clothing (no shorts, short skirts, or bare shoulders), comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces, walking shoes, sandals, inappropriate clothing for a religious site

Booking Tips

• at least a week in advance
• official website or authorized ticket vendors
• 24-48 hours in advance for a full refund
• available for an additional fee

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Rome Basilicas Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Information on nearby attractions

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO)

Distance: 35 km

Travel Time: 45-60 minutes

taxi

€50-€60 45 min

public_transport

€16 60 min

From City Center

Distance: 1.5 km

metro

€1.50 10 min

bus

€1.50 15 min

taxi

€10-€15 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: The basilica is a symbol of Rome's rich history and spiritual heritage, offering a unique blend of ancient and medieval architecture.

Historical Significance: The basilica was built on the site of three ancient Roman temples, showcasing the evolution of religious architecture in Rome. It is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, who is celebrated for his generosity and miracles.

Insider Tips

Visit the basilica early in the morning for a peaceful experience and to avoid crowds
The nearby café serves excellent espresso and cornetto (Italian croissant)
Guided tours offer valuable insights into the basilica's history and architecture

Local Recommendations

• Try a local café nearby for espresso and cornetto
• Visit the nearby Theatre of Marcellus for a deeper understanding of the area's history
• Ask for guidance from the friendly local volunteers

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Ciao

thank_you Grazie

where_is Dov'è

how_much Quanto costa

beautiful Bello

ticket Biglietto

Guide Languages: Italian, English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main altar

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Capture the ancient columns and the altar

Result: Stunning architectural details

#Rome #Basilica #Architecture

Courtyard

Best Time: Late afternoon

Tips: Use the natural light to highlight the ancient ruins

Result: Beautiful mix of ancient and medieval architecture

#History #Travel #Rome

Photography Rules

allowed areas courtyard, exterior, interior (without flash)

prohibited areas sacristy, private areas

flash photography not allowed inside the basilica

commercial photography permit needed for commercial use

drone policy prohibited without special permission

tripod policy restricted, only with permission

selfie sticks allowed but be respectful

Nearby Attractions

Theatre of Marcellus

Distance: 100m

Walking: 2 min

Type: Ancient Roman Theatre

Temple of Jupiter Tonans

Distance: 50m

Walking: 1 min

Type: Ancient Roman Temple

Capitoline Museums

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Museum

Roman Forum

Distance: 700m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Ancient Roman Ruins

Palatine Hill

Distance: 800m

Walking: 12 min