When you think of Rome, you picture the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, and endless cafés. But beneath that postcard scenery lies a maze of tunnels, crypts, and hidden chambers that most tourists never see. One daring guide to these shadowy corners is Vittoria Risi, the former adult‑film star who now roams the city’s subterranean world with a camera crew and a curiosity for the macabre. In this guide we’ll follow her footsteps, uncover the most fascinating underground sites, and give you a practical roadmap to explore Rome’s hidden side without getting lost.
Who Is Vittoria Risi?
Vittoria Risi rose to fame in the early 2000s as one of Italy’s most recognizable adult‑entertainment performers. Beyond the screen, she cultivated a love for history and urban exploration, turning her fame into a platform for cultural tourism. By 2023 she launched a YouTube series called “Below the Eternal City,” where she guides viewers through catacombs, imperial mausoleums, and forgotten Roman passages. Her background in front‑of‑camera work gives the tours a cinematic feel, while her genuine fascination makes each stop feel like a personal discovery.
Vittoria Risi isn’t just a celebrity; she’s become a bridge between the glossy world of entertainment and the gritty, stone‑laden corridors that built Rome’s legacy.
Why the Roman Underground Captivates the Curious
The Romans were master engineers. From aqueducts that supplied fresh water to secret escape routes for emperors, the Roman Underground is a living museum of ingenuity. Its layers tell stories of early Christianity, imperial decadence, and the everyday hustle of a city that never truly slept.
Exploring these depths offers three main rewards:
- Historical intimacy - Walk the same stone steps used by early martyrs and legionnaires.
- Photographic gold - Low light, ancient frescoes, and vaulted ceilings create surreal images.
- Off‑beat adventure - Skip the crowds and discover hidden gems that most guidebooks ignore.
Vittoria’s videos capture exactly that mix of thrill and reverence, making her a perfect guide for first‑time explorers and seasoned spelunkers alike.
Rome’s Most Intriguing Underground Sites
Below is a snapshot of the four locations Vittoria highlights most often. Each entry includes age, typical access method, and a standout feature that sets it apart from the rest.
| Site | Era | Access Type | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catacombs of Rome | 2nd-4thcenturyAD | Guided tours (pre‑booked) | Ancient burial chambers with early Christian frescoes |
| Crypt of SanClemente | 4thcenturyAD (built on earlier pagan temple) | Free entry with museum ticket | Three‑level labyrinth beneath a basilica |
| Domus Aurea (Nero’s Golden House) | 1stcenturyAD | Special reservation for night tours | Opulent frescoes and hidden rooms revealed by laser‑guided lights |
| Basilica of SanClemente (and its subterranean layers) | 12th‑centuryconstruction on older layers | Self‑guided after museum purchase | Three stacked levels: a 1st‑century Roman house, a 4th‑century basilica, and a medieval church |
How to Experience These Sites Like Vittoria
Vittoria’s formula for a successful underground tour blends timing, gear, and a dash of theatrical flair. Follow her checklist to make the most of each visit:
- Book in advance. Popular spots like the Catacombs limit group size to preserve the environment, so reserve at least two weeks ahead.
- Dress for low light. Bring a lightweight, non‑flashable headlamp. A red filter preserves ancient pigments.
- Hire a local guide. While Vittoria often narrates herself, a certified guide can translate Latin inscriptions and share rumors that tourists never hear.
- Carry a water bottle. Underground temperatures stay around 15°C (59°F) year‑round-dry air can dehydrate quickly.
- Respect the silence. Many sites are still active places of worship; keep voices low and phones on vibrate.
- Document responsibly. Use a camera with manual settings; avoid flash, which can damage frescoes.
When Vittoria explores the Aventine Hill tunnels, she pauses to listen for the faint echo of water dripping-an auditory clue that a forgotten cistern lies ahead. Replicating that attentiveness can turn a simple walk into an immersive time‑travel experience.
Safety, Etiquette, and Legal Notes
Rome’s underworld is beautiful but also fragile. Here are the rules Vittoria learned after a near‑miss in 2022:
- No touch‑up. Even chalk‑like graffiti ruins centuries‑old plaster.
- Stay on marked paths. Some chambers have unstable ceilings; stray steps can cause rockfalls.
- Photography permits. Certain catacombs require a separate permit for professional equipment.
- Insurance. If you’re planning a commercial shoot, verify that your liability coverage includes historic sites.
Violating these guidelines can lead to hefty fines-up to €5,000 for damage to protected heritage sites. Respecting the rules ensures that future explorers, including the next generation of vloggers, will still have access.
Key Takeaways
- Vittoria Risi leverages her fame to showcase Rome’s hidden underground world.
- The Roman Underground includes catacombs, crypts, and imperial ruins dating from the 2ndcenturyBC to the 12thcenturyAD.
- Four must‑see sites are the Catacombs, Crypt of SanClemente, Domus Aurea, and the layered Basilica of SanClemente.
- Preparation-booking, proper lighting, and a respectful mindset-turns a simple visit into a memorable adventure.
- Following safety and legal guidelines protects both the visitor and the fragile heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit the Roman Underground without a guide?
Yes, some sites like the Basilica of SanClemente allow self‑guided entry after purchasing a museum ticket. However, forCatacombs and Domus Aurea a licensed guide is mandatory to protect the site and ensure safety.
What is the best time of year to explore the underground sites?
Late spring (April‑June) and early autumn (September‑October) offer mild weather above ground and steady temperatures below, making the experience comfortable. Summer can be crowded, while winter may have reduced opening hours.
Is photography allowed in the catacombs?
Standard smartphones are fine, but flash photography is prohibited. For professional equipment you need a special permit from the Vatican’s Office of Cultural Heritage, which may involve additional fees.
How long does a typical underground tour last?
A focused tour of one site averages 60‑90minutes. Combining two locations, like the Crypt of SanClemente and the adjoining basilica, usually takes around two hours, plus transit time.
Are the underground sites wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility is limited. The Catacombs have narrow stairways and uneven floors, making wheelchair access impossible. The Basilica of SanClemente offers a ramp for the upper levels, but the lower crypt remains stairs‑only.
