Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano: Rome’s Layers of History

Just steps from the Colosseum, the Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano offers one of the most fascinating historical experiences in Rome. It’s not just a church, but a time capsule that takes you through nearly two thousand years of Roman life. If you’re exploring things to do in Rome, this unique site should be on your list.

A Church Built on Centuries of History

The basilica is built on top of three older structures, each representing a different era in Rome’s history. At the lowest level is a first-century Roman house. Above it is a second-century temple dedicated to Mithras, a Persian god once worshipped by Roman soldiers. On top of those ruins sits a fourth-century Christian basilica, which served as an early center of Christian worship. The church you see today was built in the twelfth century right above all of these layers.

Going Underground

Visitors can walk through each level to see how the site evolved. The bottom layer reveals ancient Roman foundations, including a house and an alleyway. The next level features the Mithraeum, a dark space with a marble altar showing Mithras slaying a bull. Just above that is the early Christian basilica, home to medieval frescoes and one of the first known uses of written Italian in a religious painting.

The Twelfth-Century Church

The current basilica was completed around 1123 after the previous one was damaged during the Norman invasion of Rome. Many original elements were reused, including columns and marble details. Inside, you’ll find a stunning mosaic in the apse that shows Christ on the cross surrounded by saints, along with a Cosmatesque floor made from colorful inlaid marble. The chapel of Saint Catherine contains frescoes by Masolino, an early Renaissance painter.

Highlights and Artwork

• The Apse Mosaic: A twelfth-century masterpiece showing the triumph of the cross
• Medieval Frescoes: In the lower church, featuring scenes from the lives of Saint Clement and Saint Alexius
• The Mithraeum: A rare glimpse into ancient Roman religion
• Cosmatesque Floor and Schola Cantorum: Intricate marble designs that reflect medieval craftsmanship
• Cloister and Atrium: Peaceful spaces surrounded by arcades and carvings

Religious Legacy

The church is dedicated to Pope Clement I, one of the first leaders of the early Church. Today, the basilica is cared for by the Irish Dominican Fathers, who have been there since the seventeenth century. The basilica also houses relics of Pope Saint Clement, Saint Ignatius of Antioch, and Saint Cyril, one of the creators of the Cyrillic alphabet.

Practical Information

• Location: Via di San Giovanni in Laterano, just a 5-minute walk from the Colosseum
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Check the official website for Sunday and holiday hours
• Tickets: €10 for adults, €5 reduced. Online booking is required for the archaeological areas
• Accessibility: The main church is accessible. The underground sections are not
• Photography: Allowed without flash. No tripods or selfie sticks

Tips for Visiting

Bring comfortable shoes, as the underground levels involve stairs and uneven surfaces. The lower areas can feel cool even in the summer. Booking a guided tour is recommended if you want to fully understand the site’s rich history.

Nearby Sites to Add to Your Itinerary

San Clemente is located near several other major attractions:

• The Colosseum
• The Roman Forum
• San Giovanni in Laterano, Rome’s cathedral
• The Holy Stairs
• Domus Aurea, Nero’s palace

A Must for History Lovers

Few places in Rome let you experience so many centuries of history in one visit. With its underground temples, early Christian relics, and medieval mosaics, the Basilica di San Clemente offers a deep, quiet insight into Rome’s past. For travelers seeking more than just the usual sights, this church is one of the most enriching things to do in Rome.