Uncover the mysteries of Rome’s hidden past on this 2.5-hour guided tour through its most eerie and fascinating sites
Your journey begins at the Capuchin Crypts, tucked beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini. This unique site is adorned with the bones of over 4,000 Capuchin monks, arranged into intricate patterns—skull-lined walls, chandeliers made of vertebrae, and hauntingly beautiful mosaics. Your expert guide will uncover the meaning behind these eerie designs, reflecting on the monks' deep meditation on mortality and eternal life.
Next, board a comfortable coach to the Priscilla Catacombs, a vast underground burial network dating back to the 2nd century. Often called the “Queen of the Catacombs”, this sacred site was used by early Christians for burials and secret worship. Walk through its labyrinthine tunnels, lined with ancient tombs and frescoes, including the oldest known image of the Virgin Mary. Your guide will bring history to life with stories of martyrs, hidden rituals, and the struggles of early Christianity.
Conclude your journey back at Piazza Barberini, stepping into the present with a newfound appreciation for Rome’s underground wonders. Whether experienced in daylight or dusk, this tour offers an eye-opening look at the city’s sacred history, artistry, and enduring mysteries.
