This Roman Martyrs and Underground Church tour is an enthralling experience for anyone interested in early Christian history. Taking in three of Rome's lesser-known churches, this charming pilgrimage is also a delightful walk through a strikingly tranquil and picturesque neighborhood of central Rome.
The tour begins at the Basilica of St. Stephen in the Round (Santo Stefano Rotondo), the national church of Hungary in Rome and an unusual edifice, distinguishable by the unique frescoes that adorn the circular walls and depict countless harrowing martyrdom in graphic detail. Next, you pay a short visit to the hidden treasure that is the Basilica of the Santi Quattro Coronati, a sublime and peaceful church named after four anonymous, early Roman martyrs, and an ideal place for quiet contemplation.
The tour climaxes in the shadow of the Colosseum at the Basilica of St. Clement, where you'll travel deep underground to the excavations of the 1st-century home of the third pope. Considered by the pagan Romans to be a subversive cult, early Christians were brutally persecuted for their faith. Your devout Catholic guide illustrates the spirit of solidarity in that early community and reveals the history of this unique church. The tour ends in the center of ancient Rome, moments from yet more of the city's most breathtaking sights.
Guided walking tour
