I've read of excavations under the Basilica of San Clemente which offer views to the excavations underneath Rome. Is it poosible to access this on your own, or do you need a tour? If a tour is required, is anyone aware of who offers these?

Very easy on your own and they sell a decent guidebook (~4e) at the entrance. Regards, Walter

San Clemente drops 14 centuries or more when you drop down through it, but there are many other delights to be found travelling &quot;sotto&quot; Roma. <BR>Nero's Golden House is an interesting guided tour; few frescoes left, but very interesting. Make sure you book an English tour! <BR>The incredibly bizarre Capuchin crypts in a very innocent looking church on the Via Veneto are wild-chandeliers made from long deceased brother's pelvic bones are some of the milder items you can see!<BR>And there's a church (Help!) near the train station, quite lovely and nearly baroque on the outside, that features an amazing old church underneath.

San Clemente is fascinating. As mentioned, you can buy a self-guide at the entrance. Take a flashlight if you have one as there are some dark corners and shafts you might want to peek into.<BR><BR>Domus Aurea can only be seen by guided tour and reservation. Our hotel made our reservation in late October just a few days in advance. Take a sweater or jacket as it is a bit chilly inside (at least it was in late October).

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