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- Roman Catacombs
- Catacombs of Callixtus
- Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
- San Nicola
- Capuchin Crypt
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Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere Tours
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
Piazza Barberini
Meet your expert historian guide at Piazza Barberini, beside the fountain of Triton. In a morbid tradition, this square once served as a place where unidentified bodies were displayed for public recognition until the 1800s.
0.23 km
1 minute
1
Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars
Tickets included
Tune into an audio guide as you explore the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars, where underground chapels are adorned with intricate skeletal art, blending the macabre with spiritual reflections.
6.8 km
22 minutes
2
Appian Way Catacombs
Tickets included
Venture into subterranean galleries at either one of the catacombs – St. Callixtus, Domitilla, or St. Sebastian. The site visited depends on the date selected and how crowded it is at the time of your tour. Whichever one you experience will offer a profound journey into early Christian history.
6.9 km
17 minutes
3
San Nicola in Carcere
Tickets included
This medieval church was built over the ancient Forum Olitorium, once home to three temples during the Roman Republic. In the Middle Ages, these temples were repurposed into a prison, giving the church its evocative name, "in Carcere" (in prison). Enjoy an intriguing guided exploration.
4 km
16 minutes
4
END POINT
Piazza Barberini
A unique 3-in-1 experience combining the eerie Capuchin Crypt, iconic Christian catacombs, and the Basilica of San Nicola.
- Start off at the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars, with an audio guide to its underground chapels adorned by the skeletons of 4,000 priests!
- Travel in comfort to one of the Appian Way catacombs – Domitilla, St. Callixtus, or St. Sebastian, depending on the day of visit.
- Beneath the Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere, discover the Forum Olitorium, home to the Temple of Juno Sospita and an ancient vegetable market.
- A seasoned English-speaking historian guide lends the perfect insight into each site covered. Complete with round-trip transfers from central Rome!
A unique 3-in-1 experience combining the eerie Capuchin Crypt, iconic Christian catacombs, and the Basilica of San Nicola.
- Start off at the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars, with an audio guide to its underground chapels adorned by the skeletons of 4,000 priests!
- Travel in comfort to one of the Appian Way catacombs – Domitilla, St. Callixtus, or St. Sebastian, depending on the day of visit.
- Beneath the Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere, discover the Forum Olitorium, home to the Temple of Juno Sospita and an ancient vegetable market.
- A seasoned English-speaking historian guide lends the perfect insight into each site covered. Complete with round-trip transfers from central Rome!
Inclusions
- Half-day tour around the Roman Catacombs, Capuchin Crypt, & San Nicola Basilica
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Groups of up to 20 guests
- Round-trip AC coach transfers from central Rome
- Entry to the Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars with audio guide
- Guided tour of St. Callixtus/Domitilla/St. Sebastian Catacombs with entry
- Entry to San Nicola in Carcere
Exclusions
- Guided tour of the Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars
- Tip: Don't miss the Crypt of the Resurrection, where a painting of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead is framed by parts of a human skeleton!
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible, and not recommended for those with claustrophobia or serious mobility issues.
- Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
- Photography and videography is prohibited inside the catacombs and crypt.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in Rome
San Nicola Basilica | Quick facts
- Historical significance: Built over the ruins of three Roman temples (3rd–2nd centuries BCE) near the Forum Olitorium, it reflects a rich history tied to ancient Rome and a tradition of a medieval prison on the site.
- Art and architecture: Features a three-nave layout with 14 columns from ancient temples, rebuilt in the 16th century by Giacomo Della Porta and restored in the 19th century. Inside are notable works by Guercino and Antonio Romano.
- Current use: Serves as a minor basilica and local place of worship, particularly for communities from Puglia and Lucania, while drawing visitors interested in its history and architecture.
- Accessibility: Lacks wheelchair accessibility, posing challenges for visitors with mobility issues.
- Key features: Highlights include the incorporation of ancient temple remains, Renaissance frescoes, a unique façade blending medieval and Renaissance elements, and an underground area showcasing Rome's layered history.
Why visit San Nicola in Carcere?
Layered history, literally
Going back centuries, you see structures from the Roman era to the Renaissance, from remnants of ancient temples to revamped façades.
Architectural details
The blend of architectural styles and the ancient columns tell a captivating story, while the crypt beneath reveals ancient Roman structures and artifacts.
Fascinating underground
While the Basilica is tiny, the treasures beneath are worth a visit. Combining a guided tour with other catacombs and crypts gives you a different perspective of Rome’s complex underground!
Spiritual reflection
With numerous little side chapels and divine artwork, this peaceful Basilica offers a respite from the usual throng inside Rome’s churches.
What to see at San Nicola in Carcere?
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Plan your visit to San Nicola in Carcere
What are the San Nicola in Carcere opening hours
Where is San Nicola in Carcere located
Tips
- Daily: 10am to 5pm
- Mass: Weekdays at 7:30am, 8am, and 6pm; Sundays and Solemnities at 12pm.
Best time to visit
Early morning or mid-afternoon are ideal for a quieter experience, as the basilica tends to be less crowded during these times.
- Address: Via del Teatro di Marcello, 46, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
- Closest metro station: Colosseo
- San Nicola in Carcere is located right in the city center, next to the only island in the Tiber River. At a walkable distance from numerous landmarks, like Marcellus Theater and Piazza Venezia.
- If you’re visiting independently, set aside at least one hour to explore the entire basilica and its underground.
- The guided tour will show you the highlights and provide further context, while taking you to several other iconic hypogea in Rome!
Frequently asked questions about San Nicola in Carcere
Is photography allowed at San Nicola in Carcere?
Yes, photography is allowed. The lavish detailing of the interiors make for splendid shots!
Are there any dress code requirements?
Since this is a place of worship, everyone must wear clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
Is San Nicola in Carcere wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, San Nicola in Carcere does not have a wheelchair-accessible entrance.
What is the best time to visit San Nicola in Carcere?
Since this is a relatively unknown treasure, it doesn’t get very crowded. However, early morning or mid-afternoon is best for a quieter visit.
Can I take a guided tour of San Nicola in Carcere?
A guided tour is a great way to gain context on this enigmatic landmark. The best part? You can even combine your tour with the Capuchin Crypt and one of the Christian Catacombs on the Appian Way!
How to reach San Nicola in Carcere?
The basilica is right in the center of the city, less than a kilometer away from the Roman Forum. The nearest metro stop is Colosseo.