If you are into archaeology in general and you are planning to visit Rome, you will have probably heard about Colosseum Undergrounds. When thinking about the word “underground”, we may be deceived by its common use that usually refers to catacombs and crypts. At Colosseum, the undergrounds are a completely different area, not creepy at all and with a specific purpose.
Colosseum Undergrounds were meant to be a backstage area, where gladiators and wild beasts were hidden and prepared themselves before the shows.
Let’s unveil all the secrets of Colosseum’s deepest area.
What is Colosseum Underground?
Colosseum Undergrounds lies just beneath the arena level: the very place where bloody combats were held to entertain roman citizens. In fact, while stepping onto the arena floor you can benefit from a spectacular view of the Underground area from above. However visiting it is a one of a kind experience.
Imagine traveling back in time to Roman Empire: on one side you would have met brave gladiators waiting for their turn in the underground area, on the other, cages where wild animals were kept. A series of secret tunnels connected all the hidden areas to allow fast access. Whatsmore, here and there romans arranged mechanical lifts so that both brave warriors and animals could suddenly go upstairs and impress the crowds, entering the arena from a special gate.
Is the Colosseum underground tour worth it?
If you are wondering if visiting it or not, here you can find our suggestions. Basically, it can be a memorable experience since you can really feel like being on a gladiator’s side, and step onto the same places where they were used to stand, giving you the sense of narrow paths they walk through. Colosseum Underground tours are recommended also if you have already visited Rome’s most iconic monument and you wish to have a deep insight and admire it from a different point of view. If traveling with your partner or family, Colosseum Underground tours are suggested as well because it is a once in a lifetime experience, that turn to be even more special if shared with someone you love.
How can I visit Colosseum Underground?
The undergrounds of Colosseum are a restricted area and as such they are highly requested, both because of their breathtaking beauty and because they are included only in VIP Tours. For this reason, it is super recommended to book your entrance in advance.
You can choose whether to buy your own ticket or join tours of Colosseum Underground.
Either way, visitors are not allowed to stroll at their own pace without a guide. In fact, whatever option you choose, you will have a licensed tour guide leading you through the hidden tunnels: this allows qualified staff to preserve the monument well.
Does Colosseum ticket include underground?
Not all Colosseum tickets include access to this special area. When reserving it, make sure it is written on your ticket. Colosseum underground tickets cost more than common tickets, because they provide entrance to a restricted area and they have another entrance to the main monument.
How do I book the Colosseum Underground tour?
It is very easy to book your Colosseum Underground Tour, although its availability is likely to run out soon. You can either look at our availability on our small group tours section of the website or contact us by mail or phone and request your date. If you have already checked our reviews and wish to request a particular guide, let us know.
Another chance is to choose an Underground tour from Colosseum website: in this case a local guide of Colosseum will be leading your group.