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.

Following in the footsteps of Ancient Romans, your guide will take you on a short stroll along the famous Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) - a road dating back all the way to circa 300 B.C - where you'll take a moment at the Tomb of Caecilia Metella, one of the most well-preserved mausoleums in the city dating back to 1 B.C.

Finally, en route back to the city centre, you'll stop off at the spectacular Roman Aqueducts - a part of the city sadly missed by many visitors. Here you'll learn all about the feat of enginering considered one of the greatest achievements of the ancient world - and of course snap a photo or two with the impressive construction as your backdrop!

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.