Secrets Beneath Rome: Capuchin Crypt and Catacombs Tour

Rome , Italy

Secrets Beneath Rome: Capuchin Crypt and Catacombs Tour

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About this experience

Hidden deep beneath Rome lies a mysterious underground world of ancient catacombs and eerie bone crypts. Steel your nerves, and join us for a spellbinding journey into this haunting subterranean world on our Underground Rome tour! Discover the origins of Christianity in the labyrinthine tunnels of the Roman catacombs, where popes, saints and martyrs were laid to rest far from prying pagan eyes, and take a brief stroll on the evocative ancient Appian Way. Then prepare yourself for a shock as we descend into the spine-chilling Capuchin crypt across town. Here, in the eerie half-light of dusty chambers beneath the church of Santa Maria della Concezione, generations of Capuchin monks reflected on their mortality by creating macabre artworks from the bones of their deceased fellow friars. With minibus transportation included throughout, our Underground Rome tour is the perfect way to see a fascinating hidden side of the Eternal City in total comfort!

Available options

Current Season

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

All ticket and reservation fees

Expert English-speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

After meeting your guide and vehicle at a convenient location in central Rome, we’ll be heading out to the catacombs just outside the impressive ancient city walls to begin our journey into underground Rome. This extensive network of tunnels, passages and galleries were carved into the soft bedrock here nearly 2,000 years ago. Try not to be afraid of the dark as we descend into this mysterious land of the dead. To understand these silent memorials in all their complexity, we must understand that they are as much celebrations of a glorious birth rather than commemorations of a sad death. In the shapes and forms of the stunning wall-paintings, carvings and inscriptions that survive in these tunnels, we will gain a unique insight into the world of the late Roman empire and early Christianity. With the help of our expert guide, you will come to understand the philosophies and thoughts that animated these spaces millennia ago.

Stop 2

Across the city, in the crypt of the Capuchin monks beneath the church of Santa Maria della Concezione, we will encounter a very different underground Christian space. Over the course of some three centuries, the bodies of almost 4,000 Capuchin monks were interred in the church’s crypt - but the corpses weren’t placed in tombs and coffins. Far from it.

Instead, as we explore the tiny rooms of the crypt, we are greeted with the bizarre sight of the friars’ bones arranged into patterns and artworks of dizzying complexity. Why? The crypt is a dramatic and macabre statement of one of the core beliefs of the Capuchin order: terrestrial life is transient, and death will inevitably come to us all, whoever we were in life. It’s indescribably eerie to be surrounded by the glaring and grinning skeletons of the monks in the atmospheric surroundings of the crypt - an unforgettable experience that you can’t miss when in Rome!

It was forbidden to bury bodies within the city walls in ancient Rome, and so Rome’s catacombs are located along the principal roads that led out of the metropolis in antiquity. Foremost amongst these was the Appian Way, known to the ancient world as the ‘Queen of Roads.’ Still paved with its original flagstones, today the Appian Way is one of the most evocative monuments to the majesty of ancient Rome. On our tour we’ll have the chance to take a look at the now peaceful road as it meanders its way through the umbrella pines of the Roman countryside, flanked by tombs and monuments.

Although it’s a wonderfully tranquil spot today, in antiquity the Appian Way was a hive of activity - discover how the fearsome legions of ancient Rome once marched along these stones to all corners of the empire, and learn why magnificent ancient funerary monuments still line the picturesque road today.

What's not included

Food and beverages

Transportation to and from the meeting and end points

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.5

4 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please advise during the booking process if any clients have mobility concerns so that we can best accommodate you.

Due to the Jubilee, some monuments may be under restoration. Please pay attention to any messages we may send regarding potential changes.

Meeting point

Your guide will be on the corner of Via Nicola Salvi and Via delle Terme di Tito, in front of Oppio Caffe. The address is Via delle Terme di Tito 72.

About Rome

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city of ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant culture. Known as the Eternal City, it is a living museum where every corner tells a story of its rich history spanning over 2,500 years.

Top Attractions

Colosseum

The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most famous ancient amphitheaters in the world. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill)

Vatican City

Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.

Religious Half day €17 (Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel), Free (St. Peter's Basilica)

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and legal hub of the Roman Republic and Empire. It is a sprawling ruin of temples, basilicas, and arches.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Colosseum and Palatine Hill)

Pantheon

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its large dome and oculus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome. It is a popular spot for visitors to throw coins and make wishes.

Architecture 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.

Pasta Vegetarian

Carbonara

A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.

Pasta Contains pork and eggs

Supplì

Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.

Snack Vegetarian (some variations may contain meat)

Carciofi alla Romana

Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.

Vegetable Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Appian Way Regional Park Biking along the Tiber River Rock climbing in the nearby mountains Picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens Boating on Lake Albano Enjoying a spa day at a luxury hotel Visiting the Vatican Museums Attending an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rome is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and scams can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or bracelets

Getting there

By air

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport • 35 km from city center
Ciampino Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina

By bus

Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Trastevere Monti Prancipio Testaccio

Day trips

Ostia Antica

30 km from Rome • Half day

An ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, baths, and mosaics. It offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.

Tivoli

30 km from Rome • Full day

A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.

Orvieto

120 km from Rome • Full day

A charming hilltop town known for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, and local wine. It offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.

Festivals

Natale di Roma • April 21 Festa de' Noantri • July Rome Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use public transport or walk instead of taking taxis to save money and experience the city like a local
Try local specialties and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions
Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots