Grottino del Campidoglio
Via Casilina, 900, 00172 Roma RM
Rating: 5.0 ★ (4 ratings)
Details
Grottino del Campidoglio represents a captivating network of subterranean passages and cavities hidden beneath the famed Capitoline Hill in Rome. These extensive grottoes offer a unique perspective on the city's layered history, revealing a character steeped in mystery and antiquity. Visitors can anticipate an evocative atmosphere as they delve into an underground world that has, for centuries, played a vital role in Roman life. It stands as an exceptional new addition to Rome's historical attractions, promising a fascinating journey away from the bustling streets above.
Historically, this intricate system of tunnels served various purposes, including early tuff quarries, medieval cellars, and later, warehouses, shops, and even artisan workshops. During the Second World War, parts of the Grottino del Campidoglio provided refuge as an air-raid shelter. The site is currently undergoing extensive restoration work to ensure its preservation and safe access, with plans for a dedicated visitor pathway to open to the public in late 2026 or early 2027. Within the upper grottoes, foundations of the ancient Temple of Jupiter are visible, offering a truly unique historical viewpoint.
Once accessible, Grottino del Campidoglio will perfectly suit history enthusiasts, archaeologists, and curious travellers eager to explore Rome's hidden depths. This underground experience caters to those with an interest in the less visible aspects of ancient urban development and daily life. Its overall appeal lies in unveiling a previously inaccessible 'secret tunnel city' beneath the city's ancient heart, offering an unparalleled insight into the foundations of Rome itself.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: Open 24 hours | Tuesday: Open 24 hours | Wednesday: Open 24 hours | Thursday: Open 24 hours | Friday: Open 24 hours | Saturday: Open 24 hours | Sunday: Open 24 hours
Unfortunately, it is one of the many unfinished post-war projects: called Mussolini's Metro, it was supposed to be Rome's first metro system, but after World War II, the work was abandoned and never completed. A real shame.
Today, however, it could be redeveloped and repurposed for other uses thanks to the major redevelopment of Centocelle Park.
There's even an amateur video, called "Mussolini's Tunnel, Rome," where some young people demonstrate its enormous potential and impressive size in 21 minutes. Go see it, it's truly fascinating.