Basilica of San Clemente

Rating4.5
4361 reviews
●   #41 Rank
●   Churches
●   Churches

San Clemente is a church from the early 12th century that was erected over a church from the 4th century that had been built over an old Imperial house. It is a mashup of various architectural types. The Colosseum is not far from the basilica, which is situated in Monti. Beautiful frescos and authentic gold mosaics may be found within, particularly in the apse. But the actual treasures are hidden in the mystical underworld, behind the marble floors with inlaid designs. vaults. In San Clemente, you may find frescoes and mosaics in the new church, home from the first century, a hidden pagan temple from the third century, and the Cloaca Maxima. Don't be tricked by what seems to be San Clemente's secured entrance. The building's side is where the visitor entrance is located. It is located below an elaborate Baroque doorway. The Basilica of San Clemente offers visitors the exceptional chance to personally witness how Roman life has changed over thousands of years, making it ideal for both keen-eyed adults and inquisitive children.

  • High Altar:

In comparison to Bernini's baldachin at St. Peter's Basilica, the baldachin above the high altar is quite little or undeveloped. The burial of Saint Clement is designated with a baldachin. He was Saint Peter's third successor. He was one of the first popes, and he held office for the final ten years of the first century.

  • Church built atop the pagan temple:

A hall and eventually a church were erected atop the Temple of Mithras after Christianity overtook Mithraism as the dominant religion of the Roman Empire in 313 AD. By the end of the fourth century, it had been entirely changed into a basilica and had pillars, an atrium, and an apse. Over the following several centuries, embellishments persisted, with spectacular frescoes and inscriptions being added. The Norman Sack of Rome in 1084 AD caused significant damage to this middle-class church. The top tier of the Basilica of San Clemente was eventually rebuilt and finished in the 12th century.

  • Resplendent mosaics:

The Basilica's apse, which features a mosaic crucifix surrounded by a Baldacchino, a tomb, vines, a throne, and many artifacts from antiquity, is among the structure's most spectacular features. The interior is also adorned with elaborate paintings, mosaics, and reliefs. The Basilica is also home to one of Rome's ancient aqueducts, which one can still hear pouring through the Basilica to the neighboring Colosseum in addition to housing an outstanding collection of art history. It is essential to experience this ethereal, culturally significant location when in Rome.

  • imageDuration Required
    1 hour 30 minutes

Address of Basilica of San Clemente

Via Labicana 95, 00184 Rome, Italy

Opening & Closing time of Basilica of San Clemente

  • Monday
    09:00-12:00
    14:00-17:30
  • Tuesday
    09:00-12:00
    14:00-17:30
  • Wednesday
    09:00-12:00
    14:00-17:30
  • Thursday
    09:00-12:00
    14:00-17:30
  • Friday
    09:00-12:00
    14:00-17:30
  • Saturday
    09:00-12:00
    14:00-17:30
  • Sunday
    12:00-18:00
    14:00-17:30
Home Explore Italy Rome Things to do in Rome

Basilica of San Clemente

Explore More