We want to visit this fascinating church, but want to make the most of it. Does anyone know if they have worthwhile audioguides or other map/explanation guides you can buy?

Thanks!
Dina

Check out this website for info about the church:
http://www.initaly.com/regions/latiu...h/clemente.htm
Also, do a simple good search and you'll get a host of additional sites.

I have been here a few time, but not too recently. There were no audioguides but I am looking at a small book/pamphlet that we did purchase which describes the church and has pictures too. It's a wonderful little church, be sure to go all the way down to the bottom where you can still hear the river rushing below you.

Howard,
Thanks! That was a very informative website!

Susanna,
We would be happy to purchase a pamplet like that--just SOMETHING to give us some guidance.
Glad to know they sell them there.

Dina

And if I'm remembering right from two years ago, they do have some of those boxes where you insert a coin and select a language and it will tell you about a certain part you're looking at.

The Church of San Clemente is of the Irish Domenicans so there are English speaking , very knowledgeable people on hand. There is also a large selection of books about the church (some by Father Leonard Boyle who was also the head of the Vatican Library for years) .
Be sure you see the first inscriptions in early Italian in the middle lower level: an Italian curse word.
More info & articles about Rome can be found on www.elegantetruria.com
Mary Jane (writer for Fodors Up Close guide)

I was just there at the end of March. At the various stops, there are descriptions in both Italian and English so you know what you're looking at. As mentioned, make sure you go all the way down. Have fun!

Thanks everyone. I am no longer worried. Sounds like we'll be able to really learn a lot and enjoy the experience on our own.
Knew I could count on fodorites for great advice!
thanks again,
Dina

We used the pamphlet you buy on the spot - but were also lucky enough to listen in on a private tour done by an elderly Italian woman who was amzingly knowledgeable - and seemed extraordinarily erudite overall - that made the entire site come alive.

I would read as much as you can before you go to get the most out of some of the more esoteric aspects.