Beneath the Basilica of Saints John and Paul on Rome’s Caelian Hill, the Case Romane del Celio preserves Roman homes and shops across several levels. Frescoes decorate rooms that changed in use over time, including spaces associated with an early Christian shrine. An audio guide helps explain the painted scenes and the site’s history; a small museum displays archaeological finds at the end of the route. It is a quieter underground stop near the Colosseum and Circus Maximus, with narrow passages and rooms to explore.
A residential complex beneath a basilica
The Case Romane del Celio lies below the Basilica of Saints John and Paul, on the Caelian Hill. The complex preserves around 20 rooms, with evidence of changing uses over the centuries. Some spaces belonged to homes and shops; later, parts of the site became associated with an early Christian shrine.
The rooms offer a close look at domestic architecture and everyday life in ancient Rome. Corridors connect spaces across multiple levels, and the frescoes preserve decoration from different periods. The painted imagery gives clues to how rooms were used and to the people who lived there.
From homes to a Christian shrine
The complex developed in several stages. A house stood here in the early second century. In the early third century, a multi-storey apartment block was built in front of it. By the late third or early fourth century, the site had expanded into a larger residential complex.
In the second half of the fourth century, Christian tradition placed the home of Saints John and Paul here. The preserved rooms therefore bring together evidence of Roman domestic life and the later Christian history associated with the site. The basilica above was built over the remains.
Frescoes and the museum
Frescoes are among the main details to look for as you move through the rooms. Their designs span different periods and purposes, and some combine pagan and early Christian imagery. The audio guide explains the painted scenes and points out details that can be easy to miss when moving from one space to another.
A small museum at the end of the route displays archaeological finds from the site. Together, the rooms, wall paintings and objects help explain the changing character of the complex without separating its domestic history from its later religious significance.
Planning the visit
The route passes through rooms and connecting passages on several levels. Allow roughly 60 to 90 minutes to explore. An audio guide is available on site, and a guided visit can provide additional explanation. If you plan to use a guide on your own phone, download it before going underground because cellular reception may not be available.
Tickets can be booked online in advance to help avoid delays at the entrance. The site is near the Colosseum and Circus Maximus, and the archaeological area of the Celio and a nearby park can be added to a walk in the district.
Perguntas frequentes
Where are the Case Romane del Celio?
They are beneath the Basilica of Saints John and Paul on the Caelian Hill in Rome, near the Colosseum and Circus Maximus.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about 60 to 90 minutes to explore the rooms and passages across the different levels.
Is an audio guide available?
Yes. An audio guide is available on site. Download any phone-based guide before entering, as cellular reception may be unavailable underground.
Can I book tickets in advance?
Yes. Booking online in advance is recommended to help avoid delays at the entrance.
