Case Romane del Celio in Rome, Italian capital architecture, Italy building interior design

Case Romane del Celio in Rome, Italy

post updated 7 June 2025

One of the best things to do in Rome is to visit fascinating historical sites discovered all around the city. The Basilica of SS. Giovanni e Paolo, built in the 5th century, attracts the attention of many architecture, cultural heritage and history students, housing an intriguing archaeological site below it. The basilica was built on top, burying Case like a secret until the discovery in the 19th century.

20 February 2023

Case Romane del Celio in Rome, Italy – Italian Architecture design

This site consists of a collection of Roman houses from various periods, including a luxurious townhouse from the 2nd century A.D. and a 3rd century A.D. apartment complex for artisans. The underground area of the Roman houses of the Celio, along with the excavations of San Clemente, is considered to be one of the most captivating places in Rome. This is mainly due to the presence of authentic decorations and the numerous events that have had a significant impact on the structure over the years.

Legend has it that the latter was the dwelling of two Roman officers, John and Paul (not the Apostles), who were executed for refusing to participate in a military campaign during the reign of Julian the Apostate (361-63). The two officers were later declared saints, and it is believed that their remains were buried in this location.

The remarkable condition of the frescoed rooms, their exceptional artistic and religious significance, make the Roman houses of the Celio an essential destination for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of ancient Rome architecture. The two-story building also features a small museum that displays artifacts unearthed at the site, as well as partially preserved frescoes from the 12th century.

Today, Case Romane del Celio is a part of many guided tours of ancient underground Rome. The museum is open to the public everyday from 10AM till 4PM, except on Thursdays. The entrance is free for children under the age of six, as well as journalism, archeology, art history, cultural heritage, and architecture students.

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