🏛️ Layers of Rome: A Hidden Journey on the Celian Hill

Step into the quiet soul of the Eternal City, where centuries of Roman life unfold beneath your feet. This immersive private experience on the Celian Hill (Celio) takes you far from the crowds, revealing the secrets of ancient homes, sacred sanctuaries, and buried temples — a rare glimpse into Rome’s most intimate and stratified past.

🔍 What You’ll Explore
Your day begins at San Clemente Basilica, a true archaeological time machine. Descend through three historical levels — from a glittering 12th-century church with golden mosaics, to a 4th-century basilica, and finally to the remains of a Roman domus and a Mithraeum, a mysterious underground temple dedicated to the Eastern god Mithras.

You’ll continue to the Santi Quattro Coronati, a fortified medieval monastery. Wander through the tranquil cloister and discover the Chapel of Saint Sylvester, whose frescoes vividly narrate the legendary conversion of Emperor Constantine — a masterpiece of medieval storytelling through art.

Next is the Case Romane del Celio — the Roman Houses. Hidden beneath the Basilica of Saints John and Paul, these ancient residences reveal preserved frescoes, floor mosaics, and household relics from over 1,600 years ago. This is a deeply moving window into real Roman lives, away from the palaces and temples.

The final stop is Santo Stefano Rotondo, Rome’s oldest circular church, where stark architecture meets dramatic Renaissance frescoes depicting the early Christian martyrs. It’s a powerful meditation on belief, beauty, and endurance.

🌱 A Sustainable Way to Discover Rome
This walking tour celebrates slow travel, giving you the time and space to fully absorb the atmosphere of each hidden site. You’ll support local preservation efforts while experiencing the city with minimal environmental impact — guided by a licensed expert deeply rooted in Rome’s past.

🧭 Ideal For
Curious travelers, history lovers, spiritual explorers, and those who want to experience a deeper, quieter Rome beyond the postcard icons.

Optional Add-Ons – Personalize Your Journey

All experiences are private and available as half-day extensions. Transportation can be arranged upon request:

➕ Colosseum & Roman Forum – Step into the arena and walk where Caesars ruled
➕ Trajan’s Markets & Imperial Fora – Rome’s first mall and the empire’s monumental core
➕ Roman Cooking Class – Hands-on session with a local chef, includes full meal
➕ Gladiator School (Kids & Teens) – Learn combat moves in a fun, educational setting
➕ Mosaic Workshop – Craft your own ancient-style mosaic with a professional artist
➕ Baths of Caracalla – Grand ruins of a Roman spa, mosaics and all
➕ Circus Maximus & Aventine Hill – Panoramas, legends, and Rome’s famous keyhole view