An exclusive closed-door experience leads to the discovery of the Roman Houses of the Caelian, located under the basilica of Saints John and Paul, along the Clivo di Scaurus, on the slopes of the Caelian, between the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus. Together with the excavations of San Clemente, this site represents one of the most evocative places in underground Rome, due to the presence of the perfectly preserved original decorations and the events that over the centuries have engraved profound changes to the structure. The extraordinary state of preservation of the decorated rooms and the high artistic and spiritual value make the Caelian Roman Houses an essential stop to learn about ancient Rome. Opened to the public in 2002, the Domus are also known as the “house of the martyrs John and Paul” and encapsulate more than four centuries of history as well as documenting the passage and coexistence between paganism and Christianity.
Originally, these rooms were workshops and storerooms belonging to a multi-story popular building (insula), later transformed in the 3rd century AD into a refined domus. Some of the most beautiful frescoes from the late antique period can be admired here. The Domus del Celio are part of the heritage managed by the Fondo Edifici di Culto (FEC), administered by the Central Directorate for Religious Affairs of the Ministry of the Interior, which in 2025 celebrates 40 years since its foundation.
As part of the “Fuori Orario” event, CoopCulture is proposing Sonora. Roman Houses of the Caelian: the Sunset of Pagan Idols, a special event scheduled for July 12, Aug. 9 and Sept. 13, with two evening events at 8 and 9:30 p.m. Participants will explore the ancient structures, accompanied by evocative headphone listening to classical and contemporary pieces inspired by the sunset theme, immersing themselves in one of the most fascinating places in underground Rome, a symbol of the passage between two eras.
For more info, click here.
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| Guided tours on the theme of sunset at the Roman Houses of the Caelian, among the most striking places in underground Rome |
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