The Rome Catacombs, where ancient Christians buried their dead, are often filled with visitors during the day; but each afternoon they clear out. For the first time ever, this tour avoids the daytime crowds entirely by taking you into the Roman Catacombs after they close for the most atmospheric and intimate experience possible.
Your tour starts in a different sort of burial ground: The Capuchin Crypt. Here, an order of monks has festooned a burial-chamber-come-chapel with the mummified remains of 4,000 of their brothers.[readmore]It's eye-opening, unsettling, and more than a little creepy to the outside observer. But as your expert guide will explain, this macabre site connects intimately to the Capuchin's (surprisingly hopeful) views of life and death. Afterwards, you will be taken into the extensive labyrinth of Roman Catacombs. As we have exclusive access to them after hours, you and your guide will explore the vast system of tunnels all by yourselves. As you go deep into the ground, your guide will explain the various sights and artefacts that you encounter.
Descending into this city of the dead, you'll hear stories of how the first Christians dug these tunnels as a way to observe their (at the time) unique death rights outside the limits of the old city. Unfortunately, they didn't quite escape the long arm of the tax collectors. Travelling in a small group of 18 people through the Catacombs, the gloomy tunnels will be restored to the eerie quiet that reigned over them thousands of years ago, when they were still used as active burial grounds.
Read morePlease be at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure
Both men and women are asked to wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees as The Capuchin Crypt is a holy place
Taking pictures in the Cappuchin Crypt is strictly prohibited
Unfortunately, due to site restrictions we cannot accommodate wheelchairs on this tour
The Roman Catacombs are composed of narrow passageways that run deep underground and might cause problems for people who suffer from claustrophobia