Colosseum & Mamertine Prison

Plug into your video tour of the Mamertine Prison, in the ancient basement of the church of San Pietro in Carcere. Learn about the prisoners who served time here, including Saints Peter and Paul, then access the Colosseum for an inside perspective on one of history's most iconic arenas.

Prisoners at the Mamertine Prison, also known as the Tullianum, were once lowered into the cell through a hole in the ceiling, but luckily you get to use the stairs.

Grab your video guide and explore what is essentially the basement of the church of San Pietro in Carcere, a prison that housed vanquished kings, wrong-doers, and even Saints Peter and Paul.

It's small, it's dark, it's cramped, but it's one of the most atmospheric parts of the Forum! You'll even see the bars that St. Peter was allegedly chained to, and the pool of water he used to baptize visitors.

When you've soaked up this special part of history, make your way into the architectural triumph that is the Colosseum. Explore this historic arena and the Roman Forum at your own pace.