Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere

The basics

Combining elements of Republican and medieval Rome, the Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere is a fascinating attraction for archaeology and architecture enthusiasts alike. Constructed on the site of the ancient Forum Holitorium (fruit and vegetable market) between the sixth and 12th centuries, the church features columns from the Temple of Spes (250 BC), a temple dedicated to Juno in the 2nd century BC and rebuilt in 90 BC, and the Temple of Janus (AD 17). Though many churches in Rome incorporate elements pilfered from ancient sites, San Nicola in Carcere is unique in that its repurposed columns stand in their original location and the foundations of the pre-existing temples can still be viewed via the crypt beneath the church.

Because of its complex history and architecture, the best way to visit the Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere is by joining a guided tour that explores this and other important historic churches in Rome. Many crypt and catacomb tours stop at San Nicola in Carcere, or you can combine your visit with a tour of the Eternal City’s highlights, including skip-the-line tickets to the nearby Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Things to know before you go

• Modest attire covering knees and shoulders is required to enter the church.
• Photography without flash is allowed inside the church.
• The basilica and crypt are not accessible to wheelchairs.
• The crypt can be cool even in the summer months, so bring a light jacket or sweater when visiting the underground ruins.

How to get there

The Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere is located in the heart of one of the oldest areas of Rome, near the ancient Teatro Marcello and not far from the Colosseum and Roman Forum. The nearest metro stop is Colosseo.

When to get there

The church is a popular wedding venue on the weekends, during which time the interior and crypt may not be accessible. Visit on weekdays to avoid unexpected closures, keeping in mind that the church closes for a few hours at midday.

The Mystery of San Nicola’s Jail

The name San Nicola “in Carcere” indicates that the church was built on a former jail (or carcere), and local lore for centuries held that the infamous Carcere Tulliano was once located here. Later discoveries, however, place that Roman prison beneath the Church of San Giuseppe dei Falegnami adjacent to the Roman Forum; San Nicola in Carcere instead stands on the Byzantine Carcer ad Elephantum prison.

Ways to explore

Roman churches are generally free to visit, and you don’t need a ticket to visit the Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere. There is a small fee to visit the underground area, where you can see remains of ancient Roman temples believed to have honored the gods Janus, Spes, and Juno Sospita. If you’re visiting on your own, you can simply purchase basement tickets upon arrival—cash and credit cards are accepted. The church is also included on some guided tours of Rome, such as those that explore the city’s fascinating underground world.

Accessibility

The main church is four steps up from street level; the basement is not wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Credit card or small change for tickets to the basement

What to wear

Modest attire that covers the knees and shoulders

Not allowed

Flash photography in the basilica, photography in the crypt

Amenities

Chapels, historical information

Address

The Basilica di San Nicola in Carcere is on Via del Teatro di Marcello, near the ancient Teatro Marcello and not far from the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Driving

Congested streets and limited parking mean that most visitors reach the church via public transit, taxi, or rideshare services.

Public transportation

There are several bus stops adjacent to the church, including Foro Olitorio (line H) and Piazza Monte Savelo (lines 23, 280, 63, and N8). The nearest metro stop is Colosseo (lines B and B1), a .9-mile (1.5-kilometer) walk away.

Best times to visit

The church closes for a few hours each day around midday, so plan your visit for the morning or later in the afternoon to ensure the doors are open.

Best days to visit

The church is a popular wedding venue on the weekends, which means the interior and crypt may not be accessible. Weekdays are generally less crowded.

Best months to visit

Rome’s shoulder seasons of spring and fall are excellent times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. April, May, September, and October are gorgeous.

Special events

It’s fascinating to visit the church in December, when pilgrims come to honor Saint Nicholas around December 6th.