Mamertine Prison

Archaeological museum · Campitelli

2

@atlasobscura

"While jails and prisons were not a common feature in classical Rome (as execution, exile, and forced labor were a bit more du jour) one ancient lock-up has survived down the ages and it is now said to have held some of the Bible’s most hallowed saints. In the time of ancient Rome (between 600 and 500 BCE) the little jail cell was known as the Tullianum and was actually constructed as a cistern for a spring in the floor of what would become one of the cells. Once the site was converted into a jail, the two cells were created on top of one another with the entrance to the lower cell being a small door in the floor of the upper cell. During their use historic sources have described the cells as dank, torturous dungeons. However inmates rarely stayed long in the jail, usually simply awaiting trial or execution. Eventually the ancient prison took on a great deal of Christian significance (ironic since a number of Christians were imprisoned at the site) thanks to the probably incorrect linking of the place to a tale from the Bible. At some point the small jail was connected to a story of a Christian man being jailed by the Romans and making a spring rise up right in his jail cell. As the site was originally built around the spring in the floor, this is unlikely the same site, but nonetheless, pilgrims from all around began flocking to the prison, and an altar was even put in the lower cell. In fact today the Mamertine Prison is located beneath a large church. The altar that now sits in the lower cell is decorated with an upside down cross, giving the damp dungeon an eerie air. However this inverted symbol is actually a reference to Saint Peter who was thought to have been crucified upside down.    Update as of December 2019: The lower altar is currently undergoing restoration. While the room is still accessible, all artifacts have been moved upstairs to a new museum display." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

The World Turned Upside Down
Stefano Bolognini (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Clivo Argentario, 1, 00186 Roma RM, Italy Get directions

omniavaticanrome.org

2 Postcards

See full details

More Places For You

Trevi Fountain

Fountain · Trevi

The Trevi Fountain, a stunning 18th-century masterpiece in Rome, enchants visitors with its grand baroque sculptures and magic at night, despite the bustling crowds.

20 Postcards

Testaccio Market

Market · Testaccio

Mercato Testaccio is a vibrant, glass-roofed market in Rome brimming with gourmet stalls, fresh produce, and the authentic flavors of local life.

14 Postcards

Villa Doria Pamphili

Park · Gianicolese

Nestled in the heart of Rome, Villa Doria Pamphilj is an expansive park offering lush landscapes, perfect for picnics, runs, or leisurely strolls among history.

3 Postcards

Blue Hostel

Hotel · Esquilino

Nestled in a charming former convent, this cozy guesthouse offers stylish, hotel-like rooms with modern amenities, all just a stroll from Rome's main attractions.

0 Postcards

W Rome

Hotel · Ludovisi

W Rome is a chic, stylish retreat that radiates vibrant energy with sleek rooms, a rooftop pool, and an upbeat Sicilian restaurant—all just steps from iconic attractions.

5 Postcards

Il Palazzetto

Hotel · Campo Marzio

Nestled in a stunning 19th-century building by the Spanish Steps, this elegant guesthouse boasts chic rooms, breathtaking views, and enviable access to nearby landmarks.

0 Postcards

Hotel Duca D'Alba

Hotel · Monti

Nestled on a charming side street, this Renaissance-style hotel boasts stylish rooms and a welcoming vibe, just steps from Rome's iconic treasures.

0 Postcards

Forno Campo de 'Fiori

Bakery · Parione

Forno Campo de' Fiori is a bustling bakery in a lively square, renowned for its delicious, thin-crust Roman pizzas, sold by weight and ideal for a stroll.

15 Postcards

Zia Restaurant

Fine dining restaurant · Trastevere

Nestled in Trastevere, this Michelin-starred gem by chef Antonio Ziantoni serves a stunning tasting menu that beautifully reimagines classic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting.

4 Postcards

Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto

Roman restaurant · Gianicolese

Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, Cesare al Casaletto is a charming trattoria serving up classic Roman dishes and natural wines, with a delightful vine-covered patio that's perfect for casual dining.

18 Postcards