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Rome Underground Archaeology Tour with Vicus Caprarius and Exclusive Piazza Navona Access

Dig below Rome’s surface, literally and figuratively, with a leading archeology expert
From US$477 privately
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Tour Details
Duration
3 hours
Product Type
Tour
Venues
  • Vicus Caprarius
  • Rinascente Tritone
  • Stadium of Domitian
Photos & Highlights
  • Join an engaging, local expert at the top of their field as you explore the subterranean depths of Rome
  • An intimate private tour for you and your party, featuring exclusive access to hidden sites
Tour Description
Delve into Rome's captivating depths and uncover its hidden treasures on this extraordinary tour led by an expert archaeologist. Together with your guide, you'll embark on a subterranean odyssey through sewers, crypts, and buried temples, piecing together an enthralling narrative of urban layering and the enduring legacy of the ancient Roman world.
Experts
Priscilla Priscilla
Archaeologist
Giulia Giulia
Archaeologist
Philip Philip
Archaeologist
Kasia Kasia
Local Guide
Olivia Olivia
Art Historian
Cecilia Cecilia
Art Historian
Sandro Sandro
Local Guide
Sarah Sarah
Professor
Dimosthenis Dimosthenis
Archaeologist
Liz Liz
Architect
Richard Richard
Medievalist
Simona Simona
Archaeologist
Valentina Valentina
Local Guide
Andrea Andrea
Historian
Dony Dony
Art Historian
Paolo Paolo
Archaeologist
Alessandro Alessandro
Local Guide
At Vicus Caprarius, a newly excavated site that unveils the remnants of Roman apartments nestled beneath a modern cinema near the iconic Trevi Fountain; you’ll learn about the delicate art of urban archaeology and gain insight into the meticulous work that brings the past to light. 

Your tour also includes a stop at the chic Rinascente department store, where within its basement lies the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, a remarkable feat of engineering inaugurated by Augustus in 19 BC. Marvel at the ingenuity of the ancient Romans as you trace the path of this vital water source.

Your guide will then accompany you to the subterranean world of vibrant Piazza Navona. As you descend into its underground levels, you'll encounter the Stadium of Domitian, once a grand arena that hosted gladiatorial contests and chariot races where you'll feel the echoes of the past and visualize the electrifying atmosphere that once filled this ancient venue. 

Your tour also includes exclusive access to a private section at the École Française, reserved solely for your party. Here, you’ll explore remarkably preserved walls, pillars, and intricate stucco from Domitian’s arena, which has served various purposes over centuries—from a 1st-century sports venue to 18th-century cellars. Artifacts from different eras, such as elegant ceramics and even a small, broken piggy bank, reveal the everyday lives and shifting uses of this site.

Throughout this captivating tour, you'll discover how Rome's ancient structures have been preserved and integrated into the contemporary urban fabric, creating a captivating tapestry of history and modernity.
  • You're a history lover looking to explore ancient ruins and historical landmarks
  • You crave an elevated experience with a guide who has advanced academic knowledge
  • You’re looking for a one-of-a-kind journey through Rome, with exclusive access to restricted areas of the Domitian Stadium.
  • Vicus Caprarius – excavated underground space showing ancient Roman apartments situated near the Trevi Fountain.
  • Rinascente Tritone – modern department store housing the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct in its basement.
  • Stadium of Domitian – ancient stadium located beneath Piazza Navona, including exclusive access to the restricted École Française site.
Tickets
  • Includes tickets to Vicus Caprarius and the Stadium of Domitian.
  • Upon receiving your order, our team will secure a guide. Once the venue tickets are released, we will purchase them. Our team will be in touch with alternative options if we cannot secure tickets for the date and time you requested. 
Resources
  • Check out our upcoming online lectures which transport you back to Ancient Rome, accompanied by a leading Context Expert. 
  • Check out Cities of the Underworld on the History Channel; many of the guides who lead this walk were featured on this program.
Wheelchair accessibility
  • This tour may not be accessible for clients with limited mobility as it includes a lot of stairs and uneven grounds. Vicus Caprarius has only limited wheelchair-accessibility and Stadium of Domitian is not currently accessible as there are no ramps or elevators at the site and the terrain is uneven and difficult to navigate. Please inform us in case of mobility issues.
Service Dogs
  • Service dogs are allowed if you have a medical certificate proving the need. 
  • For more information about Context Tours, please visit our FAQs.
Is this walk suitable for claustrophobic clients?
You do spend much of the tour underground, although you won't visit any site that is particularly narrow or small.

What makes the École Française site on Piazza Navona special?
You’ll have exclusive access to this private section of the Stadium of Domitian. Unlike other parts of the stadium, this area is reserved solely for your group, offering an intimate look at the well-preserved ruins and their fascinating history.

Where does the tour start?
The exact itinerary may vary based on reservation times and site availability, your tour may start at Vicus Caprarius or the Stadium of Domitian. Your confirmation email will include all the details and information.
Where You'll Start
(4.67) 453 Reviews

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ.

Nothing against our guide he was extremely knowledgeable but we thought we would be exploring “crypts and buried temples” as the description stated and we were mostly above ground - we felt like we could have done the tour in less than 3 hours as well. Just wasn’t for us.
Fantastic! He was so knowledgeable about so many subjects, great afternoon. Would give six stars if I could!
Liz was an incredible tour guide, fun and so knowledgeable. We recommend this tour highly to anyone who wants a different view of Rome from the “underground” up . Thank you, Liz for a wonderful tour. Another great one by Context Travel in the books.

Go Underground in Rome: Visit Vicus Caprarius and More with a Local Expert

Embark on a captivating journey beneath the bustling streets of Rome with our Rome Underground Archaeology tour. This exclusive exploration offers more than just a glimpse into the ancient city's past; it's a deep dive into the heart of Rome's hidden archaeology. Discover the Vicus Caprarius, an enchanting underground area known as the "City of Water," where history resonates through the ruins and whispers of ancient lives echo through the ages.

This personalized experience is meticulously designed to ensure an immersive journey that aligns with our dedication to educational depth, cultural immersion, and sustainable travel. Led by expert guides with specialized knowledge in archaeology and history, you are guaranteed an enlightening tour that stands apart from typical tourist outings. Visit Vicus Caprarius with a local expert and unravel the layers of history, as well as enjoy exclusive access to the subterranean wonders beneath Piazza Navona, including the impressive Domitian Stadium.

This tour not only reveals the secrets of Rome but also draws parallels with historical narratives from another of Europe's key cities, enhancing the depth and breadth of your learning experience. Whether you're a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, our Rome Underground Archaeology Tour with Vicus Caprarius and exclusive access to the Domitian Stadium promises an unforgettable adventure. Book your tour today and take the first step towards uncovering the hidden treasures of Rome.