Cyril and Methodius Route – Cultural Route of the Council of Europe

Basilica of San Clemente
Rome

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Basilica of San Clemente

Located just a five-minute walk from the iconic Colosseum, the entrance to the Basilica of San Clemente can be found in Piazza San Clemente. This remarkable site is not just a basilica but a treasure trove of history, featuring an underground archaeological complex that captivates pilgrims, art enthusiasts, and visitors from around the globe. Explore the layers of Rome’s past like nowhere else. The Basilica of San Clemente offers a unique journey through time, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to delve into the rich tapestry of Rome’s history.

Descending below the present church, you’ll uncover a 4th-century church adorned with some of the world’s finest medieval frescoes, dating from the 8th to the 11th century. Venture even deeper to reach the 1st-century area, featuring a Mithraic temple and a large public building surrounded by the ancient waters of Rome. In one of the lateral chapels, you’ll find a shrine housing the tomb of Saint Cyril. Above these historical layers stands the magnificent 12th-century Basilica, showcasing a stunning mosaic, early Renaissance frescoes, the 6th-century marble chancel from the earlier church, and the intricate Cosmatesque floor. Immerse yourself in centuries of history and art by visiting the Basilica to experience the rich tapestry of Rome’s past and present.

What can you visit here?

It was filmed about the basilica

Introduction to San Clemente Basilica

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Rome underground: San Clemente Basilica

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Basilica of San Clemente and underground miter

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Information from history

HISTORY OF THE BASILICA

This ancient church, originally a private home used for clandestine Christian worship in the 1st century, evolved over the centuries into a grand public basilica by the 6th century. This transformation reflects the growing legitimacy and power of the emerging Catholic Church. The fascinating archaeological traces of the basilica’s rich history were uncovered in the 1860s. Visit this remarkable site to witness the layers of history and the rise of early Christianity.

Where to get tourist information?

Contacts

Basilica San Clemente

Via Labicana 95, 00184 Rome RM
tel. +39 06 7740021
e-mail: segreteria@basilicasanclemente.com
web: basilicasanclemente.com

Moravian Slovakia Museum

Smetanovy sady 179, 686 01 Uherské Hradiště
tel. +420 572 556 556
e-mail: info@slovackemuzeum.cz
web: www.slovackemuzeum.cz

Velehrad Tourist Centre

Salašská 328, 687 06 Velehrad
tel. 723 984 080
e-mail: ticvelehrad@email.cz
web: www.velehrad.cz

How to get to basilica?

You can arrive here with the subway, Metro Line B (metro stop Colosseo) and walk for about 10 minutes on the road called Via San Giovanni in Laterano. From St. Peter’s, you can catch the bus 571 and disembark at the second stop after the Colosseum. Otherwise, if you are coming from Venice Square, you can catch bus 85 or 850 for 5 stops and you’ll arrive approximately 50 meters from the church’s entrance. The address of San Clemente is Via Labicana 95.