St. Clement Basilica Tour
What To See At St. Clement Basilica
Even if you have no idea what lies beneath, a trip to the contemporary basilica is a fantastic addition to your travel plans to Rome. Today, visitors on St. Clement Basilica Tour will witness examples of both because it was initially built in the Romanesque style and afterwards refurbished in the Baroque style. The floor is a stunning illustration of the Cosmatesque style, which gained popularity in the 12th century and is composed of vibrant geometric patterns in marble. On St. Clement Basilica Tour one can also view a wood and gold ceiling that is ornamented with geometric shapes and symbols by looking up. Carlo Stefano Fontana created it in the 18th century. The apse, which features letters and symbols in dazzling gold mosaics, and the Schola Cantorum, the choir section defined by a lovely set of marble panels covered in gold leaf, are two noteworthy features.
In this section, the 11th century, a wealthy family funded the second-largest collection of early Medieval murals in Rome. There are other frescoes as well, some of which date back as far as the sixth century, although the majority of them depict the life and miracles of Saint Clement. You can observe that some of the frescoes contain conversation if you look closely on a St. Clement Basilica Tour. The first writing in early Italian vernacular is found on one of them. Italian was once referred to as "volgare," which means "belonging to the common people," while Latin was still the empire's official language.
One more flight of stairs on St. Clement Basilica Tour will bring you to the ruins of a third-century temple, which are housed in a maze-like arrangement of chambers from a second-century home. During this time, males in Rome began to follow Mithras, a Persian god who had become popular. An altar made of marble that resembles a sarcophagus and shows Mithras killing a bull is located in the temple's main chamber. Stone benches surround the altar, where worshipers would have sat throughout the rituals.
History of St. Clement Basilica
- The remnants of a building from the Roman Republic that was presumably burned in a fire in 64 CE have been found by archaeological research.
- This Basilica was the oldest structure at the location.
- The temple was demolished and replaced with a true basilica sometime in the fourth century. It was devoted to the enigmatic St. Clement, who is thought to have been one of the first popes.
- Because of his faith, he received a harsh labor sentence and ultimately a death sentence.
- Before the Norman invasion of Rome in 1084, the first basilica was in continuous use for more than seven centuries.
- They destroyed the church as a result of the city's siege. After that, it was forgotten and buried beneath the street.
- Today, visitors and knowledgeable Romans alike frequent St. Clement Basilica, which is thought of as somewhat of a hidden gem.
Checkout: History of St. Clement Basilica
Plan Your Visit To St. Clement Basilica
Location: Via Labicana, 95, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Timings: 9:45am - 5:30 pm
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit the St. Clement Basilica Tour is in the month of April to September when the weather is pleasant. It is advisable to take the tour early in the morning so that you can enjoy it without any rush and crowd.
By Metro: Visitors can board a metro from Line B from Ottaviano to Pietro Station which takes 22 minutes. The basilica is 10 minutes walk away from the metro station.
By Tram: The tram will drop you at Piazza del Risorgimento, which will take 48 minutes and 6 minutes away from the Basilica.
By Bus: The nearest bus stand is Cavalleggeri/S. Pietro which can be reached by hopping buses number 40, 64, 32, 81, 982,492 or 990. The bus will take approximately 30 minutes to drop you at the drop off point from where you can cover the distance by walking.
- Observe the apse's gold mosaics in the contemporary basilica on a St. Clement Basilica Tour.
- In the original basilica from the fourth century, marvel at the collection of medieval frescoes.
- Explore Roman ruins underground in search of an old Mithraic temple.
- Although it appears simple from the exterior, St. Clement Basilica is home to both stunning works of art and remarkable archaeological excavations which you can observe once you reach there.
- The Colosseum is only a few steps away from St. Clement Basilica, but many visitors are unaware of its existence. This undiscovered jewel may appear unremarkable from the outside, yet it contains aesthetic and archaeological riches.
- A qualified tour guide may teach you about Rome's interesting, complex past.
- Try different cheeses, hams, smoked salmon, and other foods, and wash it all down with Italian wine.
FAQ's About St. Clement Basilica
What to do on the Clement Basilica tour?
- You will start this excursion with the St. Clement Basilica Tour. There are few places in Rome where the history of the city is more obvious than in the Basilica of San Clemente. Tall, unremarkable walls characterize this church.
- You will explore its underground archaeological sites with your guide on your tour, yet it would be simple to walk right by them. With each step you take in this magical area, you may immerse yourself in 2,000 years of history.
- Then proceed to the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli to view Michelangelo's Moses statue. Admire the statue, which is regarded as one of Italy's greatest works of art and a display of exquisite craftsmanship and unsurpassed beauty.
- Finish the journey in style with a variety of local cheeses, fine salami and hams, smoked fish, hot handmade foods, and, best of all, Italian wines!
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Why is St Clement Basilica special?
The St Clement Basilica holds a special place in the history of Chiristanity as this church witnesses the beginning of this religion till the middle ages. The basilica is dedicated to Pope Clement I which has an amazing architecture.
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When was St Clement basilica built?
Saint Clement's Basilica, which was constructed in the 12th century directly on top of an older church, is a superb example of Medieval architecture, art, spirituality, and symbolism.
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How to reach St Clement basilica?
- Metro: Board a metro from Line B to Colosseo, to the basilica in 22 minutes. The nearest metro station Ottaviano-S. Pietro station which is 10 minutes walk from the church.
- Tram: You can use Line 3 Tram 19 to reach Piazza del Risorgimento after a 48 minutes exciting journey, which is the nearest station and 6 minutes walk away from the St Clement Basilica.
- Bus: Access bus no 75, 85, 117, 186, 810, and 850 to reach the nearest station i.e. Traspontina/Conciliazione which is 6 minutes away from the basilica.
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