Navona Square and École Française Underground ticket

Discover Rome’s Hidden Underground at Piazza Navona

For just $28.66 per person, this tour offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Rome’s Stadio di Domiziano, located directly beneath Piazza Navona. With an approximate duration of 1 to 4 hours, visitors can choose to explore at their own pace using a self-guided audio tour. The experience begins with a hosted entry, ensuring smooth access, followed by the chance to wander through underground ruins and see artifacts unearthed during recent excavations.

While the tour is not guided in real time, its main appeal lies in exclusive access to the underground ruins and the flexibility of a self-guided exploration. It’s well-suited for those with an interest in archaeology, architecture, or Roman history, offering a unique perspective on a lesser-known part of Rome’s ancient entertainment venues. However, some visitors feel that adding a guided element could enhance the experience, as noted in reviews.

Key Points

• Price: $28.66 per person, including admission tickets and audio guides
• Duration: Ranges from 1 to 4 hours, depending on pace
• Main attraction: Underground ruins of the Stadio di Domiziano beneath Piazza Navona
• Extras: Optional visit to the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus with guided tour available
• Accessibility: Near public transportation and suitable for most travelers
• Review rating: 4.0 out of 5, with positive comments on the underground experience

Starting at Piazza Navona with Hosted Entry

This tour begins at Touristation Navona, located at Piazza Navona, 25 in Rome. Guests enjoy hosted entry, which helps bypass long lines and ensures easy access. Once inside, visitors are equipped with an audio and video guide available in seven languages, including English, Italian, and French.

The initial part of the experience focuses on the Piazza itself, with notable explanations about its past as the Stadio di Domiziano, an ancient Roman sports arena that once held 30,000 spectators. The highlight here is viewing the ruins of the stadium’s underground levels, which are normally inaccessible to the public.

Exploring the Underground Ruins of Stadio di Domiziano

Descending beneath the streets of Rome reveals the remains of the only masonry stadium from ancient Rome, built during Emperor Domitian’s reign. Visitors can see the ruins almost 15 feet underground, which include foundations and stone walls that once supported the arena.

The audio guide helps explain how the stadium functioned and why this site is significant. The unique access makes it possible to visualize the scale of the ancient sports complex and understand its role in Roman entertainment. Though the time spent underground is brief, it provides a focused look at Roman architecture and urban development.

The Artifacts Unearthed During Excavations

During the archaeological work, various artifacts have been uncovered, giving insight into Roman construction and public spectacles. Visitors can admire these ancient relics as part of their self-guided tour, adding a tangible connection to Roman history.

While this leg of the tour is primarily visual and audio-focused, the presence of artifacts enhances the educational value. Some reviews suggest that more in-depth guidance could make this part of the experience even more enriching, but overall, the artifacts serve as a fascinating link to the past.

Optional Visit to the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus

An additional attraction available with this tour is the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, located in Rome. If the guided tour option is selected, visitors are transferred to this sacred network of tunnels, which are strongly associated with the early Christians.

The catacomb labyrinth consists of carved corridors with frescoes, iconography, and burial chambers. These tunnels served as places of worship during times of persecution and offer a unique insight into early Christian life and death. The guided tour of the catacombs lasts about 2 hours and is free of charge with the purchase of the tour package.

Visitors should note that the catacomb visit occurs at a different time and location from the underground stadium tour but can be combined for a more comprehensive experience of Rome’s underground history.

Practical Details and Meeting Point

The tour departs from Touristation Navona, situated at Piazza Navona, 25. The tour’s meeting point is easily accessible via public transportation, making it convenient for most visitors. All tickets, including admission and audio guides, are included in the price, and the tour does not require a guide in real time, giving travelers the freedom to explore at their own pace.

It’s important to remember that cancellation is free, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The flexibility allows visitors to plan according to their schedules and preferences.

The Experience and Review Highlights

Feedback on this tour indicates a generally positive reception, with a 4.0 out of 5 rating based on 13 reviews. Some visitors appreciate the interesting underground ruins and helpful staff, noting that the experience is well-organized. It’s especially recommended for those curious about archaeology or Roman architecture.

However, some reviewers mention that the tour lacks a guided narration during the main underground exploration, which could leave some feeling that the experience is more interesting than educational. Others suggest that adding a guide would significantly improve the tour, providing more context and storytelling.

Despite this, many find the self-guided approach to be perfectly suited for families or visitors who prefer flexibility. The artifacts and ruins are described as stunning and thought-provoking, especially for those interested in Roman history.

Final Thoughts on the Piazza Navona Underground Experience

This tour offers a unique opportunity to see underground Roman ruins with easy access and audio guidance. Its affordable price and flexible pacing make it a good choice for independent explorers and history enthusiasts alike. The optional catacombs visit adds an extra layer of depth, especially for those interested in early Christian history.

Visitors should be prepared for a shorter, self-guided experience that emphasizes visual and audio learning. Its main strength is in the underground ruins and artifacts, giving a rare glimpse into Rome’s ancient entertainment venues that are usually hidden from view.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour’s flexible pace makes it suitable for families. However, stairs and underground areas may require some physical effort.

Does the tour include a guided narration?
The tour provides an audio and video guide in seven languages, but it does not include a live guide during the underground exploration.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility if plans change.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers admission to the underground ruins, audio/video guides, and hosted entry. The catacomb tour is optional and can be added.

How long does the underground part last?
The underground ruins are generally explored at your own pace within the 1 to 4-hour window, depending on how much time you wish to spend.

Is there an option for a guided tour of the catacombs?
Yes, the catacombs of Saint Callixtus are available with a guided transfer if the optional tour is selected during booking.