Beneath the Basilica of Saints John and Paul on the Celio hill in Rome lies one of the city’s most amazing hidden gems, Le Case Romane del Celio. Twenty underground rooms with decorations spanning from the second to the fourth centuries unfold in a labyrinth of history.
Initially a residence for wealthy Romans, the structure was transformed into a shopping complex and then into a luxury home for an upper-class Roman family. Late in the fourth century, the future Saints John and Paul were martyred on the site. Thanks to the many historical layers, the decorated walls depict both Roman and Christian images.
The structure was discovered in 1887 by an adventurous brother who was searching for the tombs of Saints John and Paul. The area underwent excavations soon after his discovery. After exploring the rooms, you can visit the small museum containing artifacts collected during the excavations.
Despite the fact that it’s a short walk from the Colosseum, you’ll feel as if you’re the only person visiting Le Case Romane del Celio, and you very well might be alone during your visit! If you love Roman history, this is a must-see on your tour of Rome.
