SECRETS BENEATH ROME

 “THE HYPOGEUM OF VIA DINO COMPAGNI”

The original entrance to the Hypogeum is now closed by a residential building.The access is via a hatch on the sidewalk in via Latina.

Discovered in 1955 during construction work, the Hypogeum of Via Latina is one of the most fascinating early Christian burial complexes in Rome. Built between 320 and 360 AD, it was intended for a small group of households and developed through four distinct construction phases.The descent begins with a staircase leading to a main gallery lined with cubicula (small burial chambers) adorned with frescoes depicting scenes from both the Old and New Testaments — including Adam and Eve, Noah’s drunkenness, and Isaac’s supper. Further inside, other chambers reveal an exceptional iconographic repertoire: Samson slaying the lion, Joseph’s dream, Moses saved from the waters, and the Crossing of the Red Sea. These vivid biblical narratives are rendered with striking originality and emotional depth.

Remarkably, the later phases of the hypogeum also include pagan imagery — such as depictions of the Gorgon, Tellus, and Hercules’ labors — interwoven with Christian scenes like the soldiers casting lots for Christ’s tunic or Job and his wife. This coexistence of symbols reflects the complex spiritual climate of late antiquity, a time when Christian and pagan traditions overlapped and influenced one another.

Normally closed to the public, the Hypogeum of Via Latina opens exclusively for private visits, offering a rare opportunity to explore one of the most evocative and richly decorated underground monuments of early Christian Rome.

Accessibility: The site is not recommended for visitors with mobility limitations.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Please note that **space is limited**, and attendance will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis. We kindly ask you to **RSVP by October 5** to secure your place.

Via Dino Compagni

Open to Patrons in good standing

With special thanks to the Pontifical Commission for Sacred Archaeology for making this visit possible.