Rome Underground Archaeology Tour with Vicus Caprarius

Dig below Rome’s surface, literally and figuratively, with a leading archeology expert
From US$487 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
  • Intimate private tour for just you and your party
Select a date
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.

Begin your journey with a descent into the Vicus Caprarius, a newly excavated site that unveils the remnants of Roman apartments nestled beneath a modern cinema near the iconic Trevi Fountain; a poignant reminder of the city's rich and enduring history. You'll learn about the challenges and rewards of urban archaeology and gain a deeper appreciation for 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 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.

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.
Experts
Liz Liz
Architect
Dony Dony
Art Historian
Cecilia Cecilia
Art Historian
Simona Simona
Archaeologist
Paolo Paolo
Archaeologist
Andrea Andrea
Historian
Olivia Olivia
Art Historian
Sarah Sarah
Professor
Richard Richard
Medievalist
Alessandro Alessandro
Local Guide
Sandro Sandro
Local Guide
Giulia Giulia
Archaeologist
Priscilla Priscilla
Archaeologist
Kasia Kasia
Local Guide
Philip Philip
Archaeologist
Valentina Valentina
Local Guide
Dimosthenis Dimosthenis
Archaeologist
Federico Federico
Local Guide
  • 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 want to enrich your remaining stay in the Eternal City
  • 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 Roman stadium situated underground Piazza Navona.
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.

Will we visit the Basilica of San Silvestro in Capite?
No, this crypt is no longer part of this itinerary as it is closed for renovation work, your guide will adapt the itinerary accordingly.
Where You'll Start
(4.66) 433 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.

Excellent and knowledgeable guide. Thank you.
Phil was wonderful! The tour was one of my favorite things about our visit to Rome, and his delivery of material was a huge part of that. Knowledgeable, engaging and ethusiastic, I would wholeheartedly recommend Phil's tour to a friend.
I can't think of anything to improve my satisfaction with, and enjoyment of, the Underground Rome tour, except to wish it had been twice as long. Very enjoyable and engaging. Phillip was great. I'm a history buff and very much enjoy this look at the past.

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 is meticulously designed to ensure an immersive experience 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 with intimate group sizes that foster a more personalized and engaging experience.

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 promises an unforgettable adventure. Book your tour today and take the first step towards uncovering the hidden treasures of Rome.