Medieval Rome Churches Tour: St Clement and Sts Quattro Coronati

On this 2-hour walking tour around the Colosseum, you'll delve into the fascinating history of this ancient monument, focusing on its use during the Middle Ages.

Tour Features

Local Guide

Certified Official Guide

Tour Languages

English, Italian, Spanish, French, German

Duration

2 hours

Tour Size Options

Private

Itinerary

The Arch of Constantine was built to commemorate Constantine's victory over Maxentius, marking a significant moment in Roman history. It also symbolizes Constantine’s declaration of Christianity as a public religion. This remarkable monument is a prime example of spolia, where reliefs from 2nd-century imperial monuments were reused to create the arch, showcasing the Romans’ practice of repurposing older works in new constructions.
Discover the fascinating history of the Colosseum during the Middle Ages, a period when this iconic structure experienced significant decline. Once the site of grand gladiatorial games and public spectacles, the Colosseum fell into disrepair as its original function faded. In the Middle Ages, it took on new roles, serving as a fortress, a religious site, and even housing homes and workshops. As you explore, hear the stories of how the Colosseum was repurposed and transformed through centuries, reflecting the changing needs and uses of Rome's most famous landmark.
Ludus Magnus was the grand training school for gladiators in ancient Rome, located near the Colosseum. This gymnasium was where gladiators honed their skills in preparation for the brutal fights they would later face in the arena. It was a large and well-organized complex, complete with barracks, training areas, and even an arena where mock battles were held. The gladiators trained intensely, learning combat techniques and strategies, making Ludus Magnus a vital part of the gladiatorial system that thrilled Roman audiences. Over time, the site became a symbol of both the glory and the cruelty of Roman entertainment.
The Basilica of San Clemente is a fascinating site in Rome, known for its unique layered history. The church is built upon three distinct layers, each representing a different era. The top level is the present-day basilica, constructed in the 12th century, featuring stunning mosaics and medieval artwork. Beneath it lies an earlier 4th-century church, which was once dedicated to Saint Clement and is adorned with early Christian frescoes. Below that, you'll discover an even older, 1st-century Roman building, thought to be a Mithraic temple, revealing the religious and cultural transitions in Rome through the centuries. This layered structure offers a rare glimpse into the city's evolving history and religious practices.
The Basilica of Ss. Quattro Coronati is another significant church in Rome, steeped in history and legend. It is famously associated with the "Donation of Constantine," a decree attributed to Emperor Constantine in the 4th century. According to the legend, Constantine purportedly transferred authority over Rome and the Western Roman Empire to the Pope, thus solidifying the papacy’s power.

Tour Details

Full Description

On this fascinating 2-hour walking tour around the Colosseum, you will explore its transformation and use during the Middle Ages. Your expert guide will provide insight into the Colosseum’s decline and reimagining in the "dark ages," when it was repurposed for various functions, including workshops, stables, warehouses, and even a fortress. Legends from this time often depicted the Colosseum as a site for black magic and mysticism, until the Church rehabilitated it as a place of worship, incorporating it into the Via Crucis.

The tour continues with a visit to the Basilica of Saint Clement, a captivating site with a three-tiered history. At its foundations, you’ll find a Roman-era villa, followed by a Mithraic sanctuary built around 200 A.D. dedicated to the Iranian god Mithras—an Eastern religion that competed with early Christianity. The current basilica, constructed in the Middle Ages, sits above these layers of history, offering a unique window into the cultural and religious transformations of the time.

The tour concludes with a visit to the serene Basilica of Saint Quattro Coronati, tucked away behind the Colosseum. Here, you can admire its beautiful Cosmatesque cloister and the chapel of Saint Sylvester, where frescoes depict the legendary conversion of Emperor Constantine. This quiet oasis offers a glimpse into the early medieval period, with rich history and art that connects the Church’s influence to the evolving landscape of Rome.

What is Included

Included:

Included: Ticket entrance to Saint Clement Basilica
Included: Local guide

Important Information

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements