Explore Mamertine Prison

The Mamertine Prison in Rome, also known as Tullianum, is one of the most infamous prisons in the world. It is located near the Roman Forum and the Capitoline Hill and dates back to the 7th century BC. The prison was primarily used by the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire to confine political prisoners, rebels, and other criminals. The Mamertine Prison in Rome consists of two underground cells, with the lower cell being the more notorious of the two.

The lower cell of the Mamertine Prison in Rome was a dark, damp dungeon that lacked windows and ventilation. It was reserved for the most heinous criminals, and it was here that many famous figures in Roman history were imprisoned, including Jugurtha, the King of Numidia, and Vercingetorix, the Gallic chieftain who led a rebellion against Julius Caesar. Legend has it that the apostle's Peter and Paul were also held in the Mamertine Prison before their executions.


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Events in Mamertine Prison

The Mamertine Prison in Rome has become famous for its connection to significant moments in Roman history. Over time, it functioned as a holding place for political dissidents, rebels, and criminals during the Roman Republic and Empire. The prison housed prominent individuals like apostles Peter and Paul, both of whom faced execution after being confined there. Notably, the likes of Vercingetorix, the Gallic chieftain who rebelled against Julius Caesar, and Jugurtha, the King of Numidia, were also confined in this renowned prison.


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Mamertine Prison
Executions in Mamertine Prison

Not just a place of confinement, the Mamertine Prison in Rome also served as an execution site, where strangulation was the predominant method carried out using a cord or rope. The lower cell, characterized by its damp, dark, and windowless setting with poor ventilation, was specifically designated for these executions, reserved for the most heinous criminals, making their confinement an excruciatingly torturous experience.

Mamertine Prison
Restoration of Mamertine Prison

Over time, the Mamertine Prison in Rome has been meticulously restored to preserve its historical significance. This process included integrating improvements like lighting, audio guides, and explanatory panels. Now, visitors can explore the lower cell and truly grasp the ancient confinement experience. This restoration has effectively transformed the prison into a popular tourist spot, especially appealing to those captivated by Roman history and the evolution of the justice system.


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Influence on Modern Justice System
Influence on Modern Justice System

The Mamertine Prison in Rome has had a significant influence on the modern justice system. The prison's harsh conditions and brutal punishments served as a model for the prison systems of many countries. The prison's legacy can still be seen in modern prisons, and the phrase "Mamertine prison" is often used as a metaphor for oppressive and inhumane conditions.


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Mamertine Prison
Significance of Mamertine Prison

The Mamertine Prison in Rome holds great historical and cultural significance. The prison's dark history serves as a reminder of the brutal nature of ancient Roman justice and the harsh punishments inflicted on those who dared to challenge the power of the state. The prison's legacy has endured for centuries and continues to captivate visitors from all over the world. A visit to the Mamertine Prison in Rome is a unique opportunity to experience history firsthand and gain a better understanding of the evolution of the modern justice system.


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Know Before You Go

Essential Information
How To Reach
Essential Information
  • Location: Mamertine Prison is situated at the eastern edge of the Roman Forum, near Capitoline Hill. Its exact address is Carcer Tullianum, Clivo Argentario, 1, 00186 Rome, Italy.


  • Opening Hours: The prison is generally open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but it is recommended to check the official website or local tourist information for any updates or changes in the operating hours.


  • Best Time to Visit: To avoid large crowds, it is advisable to visit early in the morning or during weekdays. The prison can be more crowded during weekends and peak tourist seasons, such as summer and holidays.


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Book Mamertine Prison Tickets

Mamertine Prison Skip-the-line Admission Tickets
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Mamertine Prison Skip The Line Admission Tickets
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Highlights
  • Learn about how the city's adversaries were imprisoned by taking a tour of the Mamertine Prison, Rome's oldest jail

  • With the aid of a unique video tour, travel back in time and take in some intriguing tales about prisons and their notable inmates

  • Uncover the amazing acts of the apostles Peter and Paul, including how they began their road to martyrdom from this jail

  • Discover the historical and archaeological wealth from over 3,000 years ago by visiting the museum with skip the line access

  • Book Mamertine Prison tickets online at the best price and avoid standing in long queues

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Must Know Before You Go
  • All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival.
  • ID proof is mandatory for each individual guest at the time of arrival.
  • Participants are not allowed to carry any sharp object, lighter, luggage bag, alcohol, knife, etc.
  • The Mamertine Prison is not wheelchair accessible.
  • You can drive your own vehicle to this attraction as on-site parking is available.
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What is the Mamertine Prison?

    The Mamertine Prison, also known as the Tullianum, is an ancient prison located in Rome, Italy. It was used by the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire to hold political prisoners, rebels, and other criminals.

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