Things to do

Cripta di San Lorenzo fuori le Mura

Piazzale del Verano, 00185 Roma RM

Rating: 5.0 ★ (1 rating)

Details

Cripta di San Lorenzo fuori le Mura serves as the venerated resting place beneath the high altar of the Papal Basilica of Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls, a significant pilgrimage site in Rome. Situated in the northern part of the city, beyond the ancient walls and adjacent to the historic Campo Verano cemetery, this crypt offers a deeply spiritual and remarkably tranquil atmosphere, transporting visitors back through centuries of devotion. Its historical depth and serene character make it a compelling destination, often less frequented than other Roman landmarks, allowing for a more reflective experience.

Within the crypt, a profound sense of history envelops you, as it houses the revered tomb of Saint Lawrence, a prominent deacon and martyr from 258 AD. Here too lie the relics of Saint Stephen, the protomartyr, brought from Constantinople, and the burial place of Pope Pius IX, a pivotal figure in papal history. Descending from the main nave, guests can explore this sacred space, which features decorations relating to early-Christian mosaics. The broader basilica complex also showcases a 12th-century campanile and a 13th-century portico with Cosmatesque ornamentation, further enriching the visit.

This historically rich crypt particularly appeals to those seeking a quiet contemplation of early Christian heritage and papal history, away from bustling tourist crowds. It provides an ideal setting for pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and anyone desiring a moment of peaceful reflection amidst Rome's ancient spiritual foundations. The overall appeal lies in its authentic atmosphere and its profound connection to some of Christianity's most enduring figures, offering a unique and moving glimpse into centuries of faith and Roman tradition.

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Location

Comments

Roberto Cecchini

7 Apr 2026

5.0 ★

I'm adding this pilgrimage site to Maps and writing my FIRST review (despite Bovino) because he is a highly revered saint, and Romans—especially those from the neighborhood named after him—are deeply devoted to him. The ancient basilica is the result of extensive restoration work undertaken after the extensive damage caused by the Allies in World War II. However, the crypt, accessed by a staircase beneath the presbytery and the main altar, was created during Vespignani's renovation of the basilica in the early second half of the 19th century. Through an archaeological restoration, he restored the basilica to the appearance given to it by Pelagius. On that occasion, he placed the remains of St. Lawrence in this underground chapel, along with those of St. Stephen and St. Justin (his martyred contemporaries), creating this crypt as a "confession." Very evocative, it allows you to walk around it counterclockwise, but it has a peculiarity that few people notice: behind the small chapel accessed from the central hall, there is a slab leaning against the structure and accessed through the portico preceding the funerary monument to Blessed Pius IX. This slab has large stains that have been interpreted as bloodstains and—according to tradition—are the blood shed by the saint during his martyrdom. (To dispel any doubt, Pius IX himself, who today rests directly opposite, had them analyzed, and they were undoubtedly identified as human blood and fat.) To admire the relics, you must insert a coin to activate the timed illumination. Very evocative, it is a place of prayer and must be respected. Need some useful information? Then leave a like and check out other reviews of Rome and beyond.