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Mamertine Prison and Roman Catacombs Small Group Tour

Uncover the Hidden and Haunting Side of the Eternal City

Step beneath the bustling streets of Rome to explore a forgotten world of ancient faith and historical confinement. This half-day journey takes you deep into the Eternal City’s powerful and profound past, revealing the stories of early Christians, martyrs and legendary figures within two of its most significant subterranean sites: the Mamertine Prison and the sprawling Roman Catacombs.
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Itinerary Highlights

  • Mamertine Prison (Carcer Tullianum): Explore the deepest chamber of Rome’s oldest prison, a profound historical site beneath the Capitol.

  • Subterranean Exploration: Descend into the chilling, stratified levels of the Tullianum, a site of execution and profound historical significance.

  • Catacombs of San Callisto (or similar): Journey into the vast, intricate underground burial networks used by early Roman Christians.

Why book this tour

  • Dual Perspective on History: Combine the dramatic history of Roman state power (Mamertine Prison) with the inspiring faith of early Christianity (Catacombs) in one seamless tour.

  • Time-Saving Access: Enjoy guaranteed pre-booked tickets for both the Mamertine Prison and the Catacombs, bypassing long queues.

  • Hassle-Free Transportation: Relax with included Comfortable Transfer between the two main attractions, which are geographically separated.

  • Expert Insight: Benefit from a blended experience: an immersive audio guide at the Mamertine Prison and a fascinating narrative from an expert Live Guide in the Catacombs.

  • Unique Combination: A perfect half-day itinerary for travelers interested in the underground history of Rome, distinct from the standard overground tours.

Description

Delve into the mysterious and sometimes chilling history of Rome with our unique half day experience, focusing on two of its most powerful subterranean landmarks.

Your journey begins at the ancient Mamertine Prison (Carcer Tullianum), Rome’s oldest jail, built beneath the Roman Forum. This site is traditionally where figures like St. Peter and St. Paul were held before their martyrdom. Using an engaging audio guide, you’ll explore the chilling, stratified stone chambers and learn about the profound impact this site had on the rise of Christianity.

Next, enjoy a comfortable, shared transfer across the ancient Appian Way to the magnificent Catacombs of San Callisto (or similar). This vast, complex network of underground tunnels was the burial ground for dozens of early Popes, martyrs and thousands of Christians. Here, a dedicated live guide will bring the underground cemetery to life, illuminating the secrets, symbols and struggles of the early Christian community in Rome.

This small-group tour is designed for history enthusiasts, providing pre-booked access at both locations to ensure you maximize your time tracing the footsteps of history’s most compelling figures.

Things to know before the tour

Not wheelchair accessible

Important information

Please wear proper clothes, to enter this religious sites. (shoulders and knees must be cover)
Please wear comfortable shoes to descend underground sites

Cancellation policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Meeting point

In front of Santa Cosma and Damiano Church located along via dei fori imperiali

Included

  • Live guide at the Catacombs
  • Ticket for Mamertine Prision
  • Ticket entrance for Catacombs of San Callisto
  • Transportation between the attraction mentioned
  • Audioguida during the Mamertine Prison Visit

Excluded

Tips

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About the Tour

Offered in English, Spanish, French or German

Duration

3 hours

Level

Easy

Access

Limited accessibility

Audio

Small Group Tour

Maximum group size of 20 people

Dates and departures

Everyday except on public holidays

Values

— What you won’t miss

You Will See

Callixtus catacombs

Roman Catacombs

Descend into the Roman Catacombs, a fascinating network of ancient underground tunnels and burial chambers that served as the final resting place for early Christians and martyrs. Explore this silent, mysterious world, where history is preserved in frescoes and inscriptions, offering a profoundly moving glimpse into the dawn of Christian faith in Rome.
Mamertine prison external view

Mamertine Prison

Step back into the chilling atmosphere of Rome's oldest and most infamous dungeon, the Mamertine Prison (Carcer Tullianum). You will stand on the very ground where, according to revered tradition, the Apostles Peter and Paul spent their final days awaiting execution under the Roman Empire. This historic site offers a powerful and poignant encounter with the beginning of Christian martyrdom.

— About Us

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