Tomb of the Scipios

The Tomb of the Scipios is an ancient burial site along the Via Appia featuring underground galleries carved from tufa rock. Six chambers house sarcophagi positioned along the walls and within alcoves throughout the subterranean structure.

Construction began in the 3rd century BC as a family vault for the prominent Scipio clan during the Roman Republic. The tomb received burials across generations until the family's use of the site eventually ceased.

The inscriptions carved into the stone tell stories of how this family wanted to be remembered and what they valued most. These personal messages reveal the Roman way of honoring the dead and celebrating their achievements.

Entry requires advance reservation and visitors must wear protective helmets when descending into the underground chambers. The site demands careful planning as access is limited and conditions are restricted to preserve the ancient structure.

The original sarcophagus of Lucius Cornelius Scipio Barbatus, the earliest family member buried here, was moved to the Vatican Museums. This relocated artifact is one of Rome's finest examples of carved funerary art.