Crypts, Bones & Catacombs: An Underground Tour of Rome

There is as much history lurking beneath the streets of Rome as there is towering above it. On this tour we take you into its eerie, exciting, and strange netherworld to show you the most impressive sights.

We start at one of Rome's most off-beat and macabre attractions, the Capuchin Crypt, nicknamed "The Bone Chapel". These burial chambers for the Capuchin order of monks are literally decorated with the bones and mummified remains of some 4,000 dead monks. Although it may seem pretty creepy, your expert local tour guide will explain the world view of the Capuchins and by the end of your visit you'll understand why the monks have chosen such a unique (non)burial method.

Next, you'll head back to the early days of Christianity by stepping into one of Rome's catacombs, where the first Roman Christians buried their dead. The catacombs we visit for your tour will change depending on the day, but regardless of where we go, you'll be able to see ancient frescos, inscriptions carved into the walls, and the remains of mausoleums as you learn why these enormous cemeteries came to prominence for ancient Christians.

Your final stop is the Case Romane del Celio*, an underground excavation of the 3rd-century villa of a wealthy patrician family who had the walls frescoed by some of the finest artists of the day. These lavish decorations have survived with astounding clarity and color, meaning you can still see the decorative figures, tricks of perspective, ceiling moldings and floor tiles.

Although this tour moves all over the city, we take care of transportation with private, air conditioned transport; so all you have to do is relax and soak in the incredible sites of underground Rome. As you drive, your guide will regale you with extra context, helping you get the most from these usually indecipherable sights.

*Important note: From March 1st 2020 the visit to Case Romane del Celio will be replaced with a walk along the Appian Way to the Tomb of Cecilia Metella, and a visit to the Roman Aqueducts. Please contact us if you have any further queries about this tour.