About Basilica of San Clemente and its Mithraeum
San Clemente is a vertical timeline of Roman faith. The present basilica, with its glittering apse mosaic of the Tree of Life, dates from the 12th century. Beneath it lies a 4th century church with faded frescoes of St. Clement and an early Italian inscription. Lower still, at the level of the 1st century city, are Roman buildings and a temple to the god Mithras.
The Mithraeum is a narrow vaulted room with stone benches where initiated men shared ritual meals. A carved altar shows Mithras slaying the bull, the central image of a mystery cult popular among soldiers and merchants. The sound of an underground stream adds to the atmosphere. Irish Dominicans have cared for the basilica since the 17th century.
What to see
- 12th century apse mosaic
- Lower basilica frescoes
- Mithraeum with tauroctony altar
- Underground stream and Roman house
- Chapel of St. Catherine frescoes by Masolino
Visiting Basilica of San Clemente and its Mithraeum: practical guide
- Best time
- Year round
- Hours
- Usually daily 10:00 to 12:30 and 15:00 to 18:00; shorter on Sundays
- Entry
- Upper church free; excavations about 10 EUR
- Dress code
- Covered shoulders and knees
- Nearest airport
- Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA), 14 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Bring a layer for the cool underground levels
- Photography is not allowed in the excavations
- Just a short walk from the Colosseum
Festivals and special days
- Feast of St. Clement (23 November)
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Mithraism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Book in advance; many Mithraea allow only small guided groups.
- Expect damp, narrow spaces, and wear good shoes.
- Do not touch frescoes or altars in underground chambers.
- Respect the churches above Roman Mithraea, which are active places of worship.
- Follow photography rules, which are strict at some sites.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Basilica of San Clemente and its Mithraeum?
Basilica of San Clemente and its Mithraeum is in Rome, Lazio, Italy, Europe. GPS coordinates: 41.8893, 12.4975. The nearest airport is Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA), 14 km.
What is the best time to visit Basilica of San Clemente and its Mithraeum?
Year round
Is there an entry fee for Basilica of San Clemente and its Mithraeum?
Upper church free; excavations about 10 EUR Opening hours: Usually daily 10:00 to 12:30 and 15:00 to 18:00; shorter on Sundays
What should I wear when visiting Basilica of San Clemente and its Mithraeum?
Covered shoulders and knees
Which religion is Basilica of San Clemente and its Mithraeum sacred to?
Basilica of San Clemente and its Mithraeum is sacred to Mithraism, Christianity. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
