Colosseum and Underground Tickets

What are the underground passages of the Colosseum?

The dungeons of the Colosseum (or 'Hypogeum') were the beating heart of the spectacles held in the arena. This area, hidden from the eyes of spectators, was an intricate system of tunnels and rooms where fights were prepared. The gladiators were kept here, the ferocious animals were guarded, and the special effects of the shows were organised. Moving platforms allowed animals and fighters to suddenly appear in the arena, creating a surprise effect.

As you walk through these tunnels, you can almost hear the echo of the shouts of the crowd and imagine the adrenalin rush of the gladiators waiting for their moment.

What tickets are available for the underground passages of the Colosseum?

To visit the underground passages of the Colosseum, you need a special ticket that includes guided access to this exclusive area. Here are the main options available:

Arena and Underground ticket

It includes access to the arena, the dungeon and some other areas not normally accessible with a standard ticket. You will be able to walk on the reconstructed central part of the arena, like a real gladiator!

Guided Underground Tour

If you want to learn more about the history and details of this area, a guided tour is the ideal option. You will be accompanied by an experienced guide who will tell you anecdotes, curiosities and the hidden history of these tunnels.

Combined ticket Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine

If you want to take a complete tour of the wonders of ancient Rome, this is the right choice. It includes access to the Colosseum (including the underground), the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. Ideal for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of antiquity.

Tips for travellers

• Book in advance: Underground tickets are limited and in high demand. Book at least one month in advance, if possible.
• Wear comfortable shoes: A visit to the dungeons requires walking on uneven surfaces and traversing ancient stairs. Comfortable shoes are essential to make the most of the experience.
• Avoid the hottest hours: If you visit Rome in the summer, try to choose a visiting time in the early morning or late afternoon. Although the dungeons offer some coolness, the rest of the tour can be hot under the Roman sun.
• Bring water and a snack: The underground tour can be intense, so it is always useful to have a small bottle of water and something to munch on, especially if you continue your visit to the Forum and the Palatine.
• Take advantage of audio guides or apps: If you prefer to visit the underground without a live guide, many apps and audio guides offer detailed explanations, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

What to expect from the visit

Once you descend into the dungeon, you will find yourself in a stone labyrinth that seems suspended in time. The guides will show you how the whole system of preparing the spectacles worked, from the cages for the animals to the moving platforms. It is an enriching experience to understand what the Colosseum represented not only as a place of entertainment, but as a perfectly orchestrated organisational machine.

In conclusion

Visiting the underground passages of the Colosseum allows you to see a hidden side of one of the most famous monuments in the world. Get ready to go back in time, immersing yourself in the history and life of the gladiators. Remember to book in advance and follow these tips to make your visit truly unforgettable!

Ready for this underground adventure?