Rome

Baths of Diocletian and National Roman Museum Tour (8)

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from €148.00 EUR
Organized by: Welcome Italy by Spare Tour S.r.l.
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Once upon a time, in ancient Rome, thermal baths and facilities were here instead of these ruins. It was all about relaxation and refreshing when an ancient Roman came here.

Delve into the historic heart of Rome on this captivating half-day tour, featuring the majestic Baths of Diocletian and the National Roman Museum. Witness the fusion of art, architecture, and history as you trace the footsteps of emperors, marvel at Michelangelo’s genius, and explore priceless artifacts from ancient Rome. Whether you’re a history buff or simply eager to discover the city’s hidden gems, this tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Rome’s extraordinary past.

Baths of Diocletian: A Testament to Roman Grandeur

Built between 298 and 306 AD by Emperor Diocletian, the Baths of Diocletian once formed the largest bathing complex in the ancient world. Upon entering, you will be struck by the sheer scale of the structure, which could accommodate thousands of bathers at a time. Today, the site reveals breathtaking examples of Roman engineering—from massive vaulted ceilings to complex heating systems—and showcases remarkable artifacts, including sculptures and inscriptions that shed light on daily life in ancient Rome.

Baths of Diocletian and National Roman Museum Tour

Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli: A Fusion of Art and Science

A short stroll from the Baths of Diocletian stands the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, a masterpiece designed by the legendary Michelangelo. This Renaissance church was ingeniously constructed within the ruins of the ancient baths, blending grandeur with an air of reverence. Inside, you’ll discover:

Planetary Sundial: Installed in the early 18th century by astronomers under Pope Clement XI, this intricate sundial demonstrates the era’s fascination with astronomy and scientific innovation.
Architectural Elegance: From the soaring vaulted nave to the subtle interplay of light and shadow, the basilica’s design showcases Michelangelo’s unique vision, marking a striking contrast between ancient Roman structures and Renaissance artistry.

A Stroll Through the National Roman Museum

The National Roman Museum is a vital repository of Rome’s cultural heritage, with several branches offering diverse collections of art, sculpture, and archaeological wonders. During this tour, you’ll explore:

Palazzo Massimo – Rich Frescoes and Mosaics: Admire the intricate artwork housed within the Palazzo Massimo, part of the National Roman Museum. This world-renowned museum contains an array of vibrant frescoes, such as those from the Garden Villa of Empress Livia, as well as stunning mosaics that offer a glimpse into the lives of ancient Romans.

Sculptures and Tombs – Exploring the Imperial Palace: Unveil the secrets of Rome’s imperial palace through its lost statues, such as Myron’s Discobolus (Discus Thrower) and the Old Boxer. Alongside these iconic sculptures, you will encounter tombs of various shapes and sizes, each telling its own unique story.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to explore some of Rome’s most magnificent yet often overlooked wonders. Reserve your spot today and embark on a journey that blends art, history, and architectural brilliance—all within one unforgettable tour.

Highlights

Marvel at the stunning Terme di Diocleziano
Uncover the architectural splendor of Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli
Revel in the opportunity to explore world-class art away from the crowds
Immerse yourself in a comprehensive 3-hour tour with a knowledgeable guide

What's Included

Entrance tickets to the museum
3-hour guided tour with a professional guide
Pick-up from your hotel (in the city center)

What's not Included

Gratuities
Drop-off (can be provided at an additional cost)

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations and changes are not possible for this ticket.

Useful Info

Baths of Diocletian is the biggest public baths in Rome were built between ad 298-306 and could hold 3000 bathers – about twice the capacity of the Terme di Caracalla.

The ground plan was roughly the same – a walled outer perimeter enclosing gardens, exercise rooms and hot and cold pools. The tepidarium was converted by Michelangelo into the Church of S. Maria degli Angeli in 1566.

The remains of the calidarium now form the external facade of the church. Most of the remains of the terme are now occupied by the Museo Nazionale delle Terme (National Museum; one of the most important collections in the world of ancient sculpture, painting and mosaics, and sarcophagi). The setting is very appropriate as it was the custom in the ancient world to decorate public baths with works of art.

Location

78 Viale Enrico de Nicola Baths of Diocletian, Roma, Lazio 00185

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