The bone chapels

Your first stop is the Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars, housing Caravaggio’s painting of St. Francis and many artifacts from the order's history of creating altruistic projects around the world. Lined along the rear end of the museum are the Capuchin Crypts: resting places of 4000 Capuchin Friars, whose skeletal remains were artistically arranged in the European tradition of memento mori, a simple reminder that all must die.

The sacred Christian catacombs

On a private AC bus, you'll travel along the ancient Appian Way to the extensive catacombs, dug into the ground some 2000 years ago. Follow your historian guide through the network of sacred tunnels associated with the first Christians in ancient Rome. Descend into the labyrinthian corridors carved into the soft volcanic rock as you discover intriguing iconography, fascinating frescoes, and breathtaking burial grounds. You will either visit the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, St. Sebastian, or Domitilla!

Basilica of San Martino ai Monti

San Martino ai Monti dates back to the 4th century, making it one of the oldest churches in Rome. It started as a titulus, an early Christian gathering place before Christianity was legalized, and was later transformed into a basilica. Beneath the basilica, you can explore archaeological remains including ancient Roman buildings and early Christian oratories. Since it’s just a short walk from the Colosseum yet often overlooked, this church is a hidden sanctuary in the heart of Rome.