Porta Maggiore Basilica is regarded as the oldest pagan basilica in the Western world.
Located in the centre of Rome and around 13 metres deep, it is one of the most interesting and evocative sites of the early Imperial period.
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Opening days
Site temporarily closed
- Web Underground Basilica of Porta Maggiore
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Accessibility
Not accessible to disabled people
HISTORY IN BRIEF
Constructed by digging down into the tuff under the ancient Via Prenestina, Porta Maggiore Basilica was discovered almost by chance in 1917 during work to construct the Termini railway station viaduct.
It is thought that the Basilica was built by Titus Statilius Taurus, a member of the Statilius family, which owned lots of property in the Porta Maggiore area and in Via Prenestina, and close collaborator of the Emperor Augustus.
VISITING THE BASILICA
The basilica has a classic design with three naves with central apse preceded by a vestibule decorated with coloured stucco. You will be most amazed by the ceilings and walls densely decorated with various scenes from mythology, all of which are inspired by the theme of the soul and the secrets of the initiation in the Mysteries.
The underground Basilica of Porta Maggiore is a genuine subterranean jewel, a magical and mysterious place that you won’t want to miss.
If you want to learn more, book your visit.
Services
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Visits
for individuals by reservation
available in Italian -
Visits
for groups by reservation
available in Italian, English, French, German, Spanish
[email protected] -
Visits
for schools by reservation
available in Italian, English, French, German, Spanish
[email protected]
Additional Info
Access only with guided or accompanied tour.
Reservation required
Where
Piazzale Labicano 2, Roma (RM)
Transportation
Metro: line A, stop on Manzoni
Bus: nn. 50, 105
Tram: nn. 3, 5, 8, 14, 19
Visiting Rules
- Face masks strongly reccommended. Find out more
- Comfortable shoes are recommended
