Case Romane del Celio

Case Romane del Celio has seen many changes over the years. It started as a luxurious Roman home for the elite in the second century AD. By the third century, it became a middle-class apartment building with shops below and living spaces above. In the early fourth century, a wealthy family turned it into a grand house adorned with frescoes depicting nature and pagan themes. Later, it became a Christian shrine where Saints John and Paul lived and were martyred. A confessional shrine with frescoes marks their burial site. A Roman Senator later built a Christian basilica above, honoring the martyrs. The hidden rooms were discovered in 1887, and after extensive restoration, the site opened to the public in 2002.

How to Get There

Located on Clivo di Scauro on Caelian Hill, Case Romane del Celio is conveniently positioned between the Colosseum and Circus Maximus. Visitors can take the Metro to either Colosseo or Circo Massimo on the B line. It’s just a short five to ten-minute walk from the Colosseum or Roman Forum.

List of Attractions

1. Decorated Rooms: Explore 20 rooms adorned with a blend of pagan and early Christian frescoes, offering a peek into ancient Roman life.
2. Confessio Room: Although not on the main tour, this room is the burial site for Saints John and Paul.
3. Museum: Opened in 2002, the museum showcases artifacts from the excavation, including amphoras and a large fresco from the medieval oratory.
4. Historic Roman Road: The site is along Clivo di Scauro, a historic road retaining its original name.

Ticket Information

Tickets for Case Romane del Celio can be purchased in advance, costing around €10.00. Booking through certain platforms like Tiqets can offer up to 20% off. It’s advisable to book early to ensure availability.

Tips for Visiting

1. Accessibility: The site is mostly wheelchair accessible, except for the Confessio Room.
2. Visiting Rules: Masks are recommended, and eating, smoking, photography, and large bags are not allowed inside.
3. Audio Guide: Enhance your visit with an audio guide available for €5.00, providing more insights into the site.
4. Group Reservations: Groups and schools must book in advance, with fees of €10.00 for groups and €5.00 for schools.
5. Proximity to Other Sites: Its location near other historical sites like the Colosseum makes it an easy addition to your itinerary.

By following these tips and delving into the history of Case Romane del Celio, visitors can enjoy a richer understanding of ancient Roman life and its evolution over time.