Popular European travel spot offers another compelling reason to explore.

Underground Passages in Rome Set to Open to Visitors

Hidden beneath the Capitoline Hills in Rome, a network of little-known underground passages is about to reveal more about the city’s ancient past. These secret tunnels are expected to welcome visitors in the not-so-distant future.

Archaeologist Elsyria Dabrosio shared her astonishment, saying, “I have never seen these caves or tunnels in more than a century.”

The extensive underground network, known as the Grottino Del Campidoglio, spans 42,000 square feet and lies beneath some of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Once thrumming with life during Julius Caesar’s time, these tunnels have a rich history.

Before being sealed by Benito Mussolini in the 1920s, the site served various purposes. It was a quarry, a water repository, a tavern, and even a bomb shelter during World War II. There was also a lively underground market in the 1800s.

Thanks to a significant restoration effort costing $2.8 million, these tunnels are slated to open to the public by late 2026 or early 2027.

Earlier this month, CNN was granted exclusive access to the tunnels. They found a damp, cool environment, with temperatures around 55 degrees Fahrenheit, located about 75 feet underground. At its deepest, the passage reaches nearly 1,000 feet below the surface, surpassing many subway systems.

As Dabrosio described, “This is an esoteric experience in many ways.” Ongoing excavations have uncovered various artifacts—everything from marble foundations of a temple to remnants of ancient animals, and even pots that once contained wine and olive oil.

The Grottino’s history reflects thousands of years of evolution. It transitioned from ancient stone quarries to medieval shelters and later, 19th-century bars. During WWII, it housed air raid shelters, reinforced with secured entrances.

Interestingly, the German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe had a well-known romantic encounter in the 1780s with a tavern worker in these very tunnels, which he later woven into his famous writings.

Despite extensive renovations above ground, these tunnels remained sealed until now. Modern technology, including laser scanning and structural reinforcement, has made them safe for public exploration.

Plans for the opening include museum exhibits featuring artifacts recovered from earlier excavations, and potential displays from the Capitoline Museums. Multilingual guided tours will also be available, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging visitor experience.

While the Capitoline Museum dazzles above with classic artistry—from bronze and marble statues to Renaissance frescoes—the new underground museum is quietly taking shape beneath, ready to offer a different perspective on history.