Basilica of San Clemente
95 Via Labicana Roma
The Basilica of San Clemente tells the story of Rome’s layered history, preserving centuries of faith and transformation. Managed by the Irish Dominican Friars since 1677, their stewardship safeguards both its spiritual heritage and historical treasures.
The present 12th-century basilica is most famous for its apse mosaic, where Christ on the cross stands at the center of a golden Tree of Life, its branches weaving outward in rich symbolism. Inspired by John 15, this image recalls Christ’s words: “I am the vine; you are the branches… If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.”
Beneath the main altar rest the relics of Pope St. Clement I, the fourth pope of Rome, martyred in Crimea. Each November 23, on his feast day, the Irish Dominicans lead a procession through the neighborhood, recalling the 9th-century transfer of his relics from Crimea to Rome by Saints Cyril and Methodius.
Visitors can descend beneath the basilica to explore nearly 2,000 years of history. The first level reveals a 4th-century church, its ancient frescoes depicting St. Clement. Below that, a 1st-century Roman building houses a Mithraeum, a shrine dedicated to the pagan god Mithras, where a ritual altar still stands.
Tickets for this underground journey can be purchased online or at the basilica, offering a rare glimpse into the spiritual and architectural evolution of Rome.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
As I step into this both ancient and medieval church,
a tapestry of faith woven through the centuries,
I bring my heart before You in humility and hope.
Through the intercession of Pope Saint Clement I,
draw me closer to Your eternal love.
Guide me to deeper conversion,
and let this holy Jubilee Year be a time of renewal for my soul.
May the layers of history beneath my feet remind me
of Your enduring presence in all times and seasons.
Bless my pilgrimage, Lord, and grant me the grace
to leave here strengthened to share Your light with the world.
Amen.
Recommended Nearby:
Basilica of Santo Stefano Rotondo
An early Christian church dedicated to deacon and first martyr St. Stephan, is located on the Celio, one of the highest of the legendary seven hills of Rome.
See Also:
Early Christian Underground
Step into the hidden world of faith's earliest roots—discover our list of catacombs and underground churches that tell the story of courage, hope, unshakable belief, and martyrdom. Unveil the sacred places where Christianity blossomed in the shadows.
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