Your Feet on Rome's History: A Private Underground Experience
Discover hidden Rome with a private tour of the underground areas of Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona, led by an expert archaeologist
Discover a secret and captivating Rome with our Trevi Fountain underground including Piazza Navona underground with a private guide. From the famous baroque jewel of Trevi Fountain you will discover how the water comes out from it visiting its underground, where the mysterious Vicus Caprarius, the "City of Water," lies hidden. This underground labyrinth reveals ancient Roman homes and the sophisticated hydraulic system that powered the city. Feel the pulse of ancient Rome as you explore remnants dating back to the 1st century AD and learn how water was the secret engine of the empire.
Walking through Rome's narrow historic streets you will then reach Piazza Navona, where the Four Rivers Fountain of Bernini stand still. Here, another hidden surprise awaits: descending into the undergrounds, you'll explore the remains of the majestic Stadium of Domitian, the stage for ancient athletic contests and spectacular imperial games. Amid travertine walls and secret passages, you'll relive the grandeur and power of the ancient empire, hearing the echo of thousands of spectators.
A unique experience, enriched by stories and mysteries revealed by an expert guide, who will uncover the secrets lying beneath the surface of the Eternal City.
Duration
2.5 hours
Tour Type
Private Tour
TOUR INCLUDES
- Trevi Fountain Underground Tickets
- Piazza Navona underground Tickets
- Live private guide
Main sites Explored in the Tour
- Trevi Fountain
- The City of Water (Trevi Fountain Underground)
- Piazza Navona
- Domitian Stadium (Piazza Navona Underground)
Immerse yourself in an unprecedented Rome private tour! Beneath one of the city's most iconic landmarks, the Fontana di Trevi, you'll uncover the fascinating Vicus Caprarius, also known as the "City of Water." This world-famous fountain, with its breathtaking sculptures and Baroque design, draws millions of visitors who toss coins over their shoulder to ensure a return to Rome. Little do they know that beneath its dazzling waters lies a hidden archaeological site. Here, about 9 meters down, is a secluded corner revealing an ancient Rome rarely seen by most. In this underground labyrinth, we’ll explore the remains of 1st-century Roman houses, which provide glimpses into daily life of the time. The intricately crafted walls, floor mosaics, and sculptures found within let us step back into the luxurious atmosphere of the imperial era.
Yet, the true star here is water itself—a lifeline for ancient Rome. This area, part of our Trevi Fountain underground tour, was fed by the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct, which still supplies water to the fountain today. Constructed in 19 BC by Agrippa under Emperor Augustus, this aqueduct served to supply the city’s baths and fountains, including Trevi’s striking cascades. Our guide will explain how Rome’s innovative hydraulic systems continue to function, showcasing the Roman expertise that enabled the city’s growth and prosperity.
As water still flows under the streets today, it echoes as a tangible link to the past. Beyond this, the site is rich with artifacts, from ceramics to votive offerings found in modern excavations, each piece weaving together the social and cultural fabric of ancient Rome.
But the Underground Rome Tour doesn’t end here! We continue our journey towards Piazza Navona, one of Rome's most famous squares, walking through the ancient streets that connect the heart of the city. Along the way, we will admire fascinating glimpses and discuss the city’s transformations over the centuries. As we reach Piazza Navona, you’ll see Bernini’s magnificent Four Rivers Fountain, symbolizing the four great rivers of the world, and the Chiesa di Sant’Agnese in Agone, a Baroque gem attributed to Borromini. Both are masterpieces that bring the square to life with their beauty and grandeur.
Visit a hidden Rome of incredible historical value with our exclusive Piazza Navona Underground Tour. The square itself sits atop the foundations of the Stadium of Domitian, a monumental complex built in 86 AD to host Greek-style athletic games that attracted large crowds. These games, which were more than mere sporting events, served as tools of imperial propaganda, strengthening the bond between emperors and the Roman people. Descending below the square, you will discover remnants of the stadium, including travertine walls and underground passages that connected various sections of the arena.
The elongated shape of the square reflects the original layout of the ancient stadium, and on our journey into the past, the tour will help you envision the grandeur and excitement of the events that once captivated thousands of spectators. You’ll be transported back to an era where these games and spectacles showcased not only athletic prowess but also imperial power. Walking through these ruins, you can appreciate the evolution of the stadium over centuries—from an imperial structure to a medieval market space, and finally, into the Baroque marvel that now adorns Piazza Navona.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Rome from a fresh perspective, rich in history, art, and mystery, with an expert guide who will lead you to discover the hidden secrets beneath the Eternal City.
Likely to sell out
From € 169
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