A few steps from the Colosseum, protected from the chaos of tourists and the noise of traffic, there is a silent, submerged world. Beneath the surface of the capital lie underground lakes with crystal-clear water, a hidden treasure that tells the story of thousands of years of Roman history. Between imperial temples and war shelters.
The history of underground lakes
It all began around 54 AD, when Empress Agrippina ordered the construction of a majestic temple dedicated to her husband, Emperor Claudius (history tells us that it was she who poisoned him with a plate of mushrooms). The real magic, however, lies in the belly of this structure.
The tunnels were originally dug to extract tuff and pozzolana, the materials used to build eternal Rome. If you decide to take a guided tour with “Roma Sotterranea,” you will see electrical cables on the walls along the way. These spaces were reused as bunkers during the bombings of World War II.
Passing through the tunnels, the scenery changes dramatically. You find yourself in front of pools of water covered with micro calcite crystals that form a white seabed. The water reaches a depth of about 1 meter and 70 centimeters, although the level fluctuates depending on the season. Analyses confirm that the water is incredibly pure and crystal clear, although the exact origin of this source remains a fascinating archaeological enigma to this day.
How to visit them
If you want to discover this unknown side of Rome, the Roma Sotterranea association organizes guided tours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Reservations are required.
To take part in the excursion, you are required to wear a helmet (provided by the association) and hiking boots (to prevent slipping). Tickets can be purchased online. The cost is €18. We recommend parking your car in Largo della Sanità Militare.