St. Peter in Chains and Mamertine Prison Private Tour

Your tour begins at the staircase of San Pietro in Vincoli

Meet your personal guide in front of the sweeping staircase of the fifth-century Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli. Take in the quiet atmosphere of this historic Roman neighborhood as your guide introduces the incredible history of early Christianity and the art you are about to see.

Marvel at Michelangelo's Moses sculpture inside the basilica

Step inside the church to stand directly before the monumental tomb of Pope Julius II. Admire the lifelike detail of Michelangelo's Renaissance masterpiece, the statue of Moses, while your guide explains the immense artistic skill and political intrigue behind its creation.

Venerate the sacred relics of Saint Peter

Examine the bronze reliquary beneath the high altar, housing the actual chains believed to have bound Saint Peter during his imprisonments in Jerusalem and Rome. Learn about the miraculous legend of how these two separate chains fused together when reunited in the fifth century.

Walk through the historic heart of ancient Rome

Next, follow your guide on a short, scenic walk down the hillside toward the Roman Forum. As you transition from the quiet residential hill to the ancient civic center, your guide will point out architectural layers that reveal how pagan Rome transformed into a Christian capital.

Descend into the underground chambers of Mamertine Prison

Then, enter the ancient state prison of Rome located at the foot of the Capitoline Hill. Explore the somber Tullianum chamber, where enemies of Rome and political prisoners were held, while discovering the deep archeological history of this dark site with your guide.