Underground basilica of Porta Maggiore

The underground basilica features three naves supported by six stone pillars and contains white stucco reliefs depicting mythological figures throughout its interior spaces.

The subterranean structure, dating from the first century AD, was discovered in 1917 during railway construction work through an accidental ground cavity.

Stucco decorations portray Greek mythology scenes including Ganymede, Orpheus, Helen of Troy, and Medusa, suggesting connections to Neopythagorean religious practices.

Visitors can access the basilica on second and fourth Sundays monthly through scheduled tours, with entry restricted to small groups for preservation purposes.

The site represents the sole known archaeological evidence of Neopythagorean movement facilities, predating Christian basilicas by approximately two centuries.

Location: Rome

Architectural style: neopythagoreanism

Phone: +3906699841

Email: anna.desantis@beniculturali.it

GPS coordinates: 41.89180,12.51648

Latest update: May 13, 2025 07:26