Crypt Balbi
What to See If you want to visit this place, here is some useful information about it.
The National Roman Museum is a true immersion in the history and culture of Rome. With its four emblematic locations, Palazzo Altemps, Terme di Diocleziano, Crypta Balbi, and Palazzo Massimo, you will live a unique and enriching experience.
The Crypta Balbi Itself
The main attraction of the Crypta Balbi is the crypt itself, a structure dating from the Roman era. By exploring its well-preserved remains, you can discover the corridors and rooms that once made up this space. Admire the brick vaults and the period architectural elements that testify to the past grandeur of Rome.
Interactive Exhibitions
The Crypta Balbi also houses interactive exhibitions that will help you to better understand daily life in Rome through the ages. Thanks to reconstructions, archaeological objects, and multimedia presentations, you can immerse yourself in the history of the city and discover how it has evolved over time.
Archaeological Objects Discovered
During your visit, do not miss the archaeological objects discovered during the excavations of the Crypta Balbi. Coins, jewelry, household utensils, and many other fascinating objects are on display, offering a precious glimpse into the daily life of the Romans.
Frescoes and Mosaics
The Crypta Balbi also houses remains of frescoes and mosaics beautifully preserved. These ancient works of art testify to the artistic refinement of the Roman era and offer insight into the techniques and motifs used at the time.
Tips I'm sharing all my tips here for visiting this place under the best conditions.
Plan Your Visit in Advance
To make the most out of your visit to the National Roman Museum, take the time to plan your itinerary in advance. The museum is composed of several sites, so research the exhibitions and collections that interest you the most and create a visit plan accordingly. There's a combined ticket (valid for a week from the day of purchase) for the four sites that are part of the National Roman Museum (Palazzo Altemps, Terme di Diocleziano, Crypta Balbi, and Palazzo Massimo), or an individual ticket if you want to visit just one of the four sites. Book here now.
Note: It will take you two days to visit all four sites. Palazzo Massimo and Terme di Diocleziano are located next to each other and can be visited in one day. However, Palazzo Altemps and Crypta Balbi are located in separate locations in the center of Rome.
Opt for a Guided Tour
To make the most of your visit, consider joining a guided tour. Guides are experts who can provide you with in-depth information about the history and highlights of Crypta Balbi.
Pay Attention to Architectural Details
During your visit, pay special attention to the architectural details of Crypta Balbi. The arches, columns, and frescoes showcase the construction genius of the Roman era and add an aesthetic dimension to your experience.
Explore Historical Treasures Near Crypta Balbi in Rome
Ready for an unforgettable journey through history? While you're at Crypta Balbi, don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders that Rome has to offer just nearby.
- Pantheon: The Pantheon, a true gem of Roman architecture, transports you through time. Its spectacular dome and rich history make it a must-see. Discover how this ancient temple pays homage to Roman gods and marvel at its ingenious engineering. Reserve here or there now.
- Capitoline Museums: Dive into the depths of Roman history by exploring the Capitoline Museums. Each gallery houses unique treasures, from ancient statues to everyday objects. A fascinating opportunity to glimpse the life and culture of ancient Rome. Reserve here or there now.
Explore, discover, and immerse yourself in the history of Rome like never before.
Information Here are all the useful information about this place (address, opening hours, coordinates, etc.).
History Every place has its history. Discover all the events that have marked this place here.
The Evolution of Crypta Balbi in Rome
Crypta Balbi forms a cultural complex nestled in the district of the Field of Mars in Rome. It encompasses the archaeological site of the former portico named "Crypta Balbi", connected to the Theatre of Balbus, as well as a museum inaugurated in 2001, housing a portion of the collections of the National Roman Museum.
The Museum of Crypta Balbi
The museum is situated on Via delle Botteghe Oscure. It is part of an expansive complex of buildings, including the churches of Santa Caterina dei Funari and Saint Stanislas des Polonais, covering around 7,000 square meters, with nearly 40,000 cubic meters of built space. This space was acquired by the State in 1981 and is located next to the Balbus portico, built by Lucius Cornelius Balbus Minor in 13 BC, concurrently with the Crypta Balbi itself.
In Roman times, this urban complex included the Theatre of Balbus and its portico known as Crypta Balbi, as well as dwellings on the south side of the Portico of Minucius, whose remains are visible on the opposite side of Via delle Botteghe Oscure.
During the Middle Ages, the site hosted the church and convent of Santa Maria Domine Rose, accompanied by their garden and dependencies. Medieval dwellings also emerged along Via dei Delfini. In the Renaissance period, the convent of Santa Caterina took its place, along with its Conservatorio, denoting an orphanage. The existing Saint Stanislas Church and its annex, which once housed Poles, date back to the 18th century.
The Theatre of Balbus and Its "Crypta Balbi" Portico
The Theatre of Balbus, erected in 19 BC by the consul Lucius Cornelius Balbus Minor, had a smaller scale, with 11,000 seats and a diameter of 90 meters, half the size of the theatres of Marcellus or Pompey. It was identified in the 1960s, housed beneath the roofs of the Paganica and Caetani palaces, oriented towards the east, extended behind the stage wall with a portico housing a cryptoportico (underground portico).
This complex, known as Crypta Balbi, housed artisan workshops, including renowned bronze workers from Roman times, and later ropemakers during the Middle Ages, giving rise to the name Via dei Funari and the nearby Santa Caterina dei Funari church.
Remains of the external galleries of the portico, supported by columns, as well as the exedra located at the eastern end of the building, endure on three sides of the structure. The overall plan is also depicted through fragments of the marble plan (Forma Urbis) from the Severan period. Traces of a structure, potentially the Temple of Vulcan in the Field of Mars, mentioned in an inscription found nearby, were discovered in the center.
Archaeology and History of the City of Rome
The archaeological complex is presented in renovated rooms, situated above the ancient Roman structure. The remains of the quadriportico of Balbus can be observed here.
The first section presents the results of archaeological excavations conducted since 1981 in the complex of buildings, including the uncovered ancient remains.
The second section details the life and transformation of the city between the 5th and 10th centuries.
Family If you're visiting this place with your family, I'm sharing some great tips that will delight both kids and adults.
Creative Activities
Offer creative activities to the children, such as creating their own Roman fresco or making jewelry inspired by antiquity. This will allow them to immerse themselves further in history and develop their creativity.
Historical Role-Playing Games
Organize historical role-playing games where children can take on characters from the Roman era. They can participate in imaginary scenarios and experience adventures within the setting of Crypta Balbi.
Travel Journal
Provide children with a travel journal to complete during the visit. They can draw, take notes, and jot down their impressions of the different discoveries they make. This will help them keep a personal memory of their experience at Crypta Balbi.
Explore Treasures Nearby with Your Children at Crypta Balbi in Rome
Ready to make this day even more special with your children? While you're at Crypta Balbi, discover incredible experiences just nearby that will delight both young and old.
- Welcome to Rome: Immerse yourself in the Eternal City! Dive into the history and magic of Rome at "Welcome to Rome." This interactive experience takes you through the centuries, allowing you to relive key moments of the city. An unforgettable adventure for you and your children. Book here now and embark on a fascinating journey through time.
- Museo/Mostra Leonardo da Vinci Il Genio le Invenzioni: Explore the Spirit of Genius! Let the incredible genius of Leonardo da Vinci inspire your children. This museum showcases the incredible inventions and innovative ideas of the great artist and inventor. A unique opportunity to stimulate their creativity while having fun. Book your tickets here and delve into the world of this extraordinary visionary.
- Ikono Rome: Offer your children a modern and immersive artistic experience at Ikono. Discover contemporary art exhibitions that will ignite their imagination and curiosity. A unique way to explore art from a new perspective. Book your tickets here and enjoy a captivating cultural moment. Have a memorable day filled with discoveries and wonder with your children.