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Vicus Caprarius – Read this before you go

We have visited Rome three times now and it was only on our third visit did we find out about Vicus Caprarius. Also known as the city of water in Rome that fees the world-famous Trevi Fountain. Of course, once we found out about it, of course, wanted to visit. On doing our research it is said to be underneath the Trevi fountain. Although close to a popular tourist destination it actually acts collects the water from the Trevi Fountain in a huge water tank. Yet the underground ruins are so much more and an important discovery in the history of the city. If you are thinking of visiting this hidden gem then here is want to expect.

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Where is the archaeological site of Vicus Caprarius

The underground site spreads across the city’s Trevi district. Located very close to the Trevi Fountain. Which we had the benefit of staying practically on top of the most famous fountain in Rome with stunning views from our apartment building. The entrance is only a short walk and hard to miss if you follow the brown signs. These have Area Archeologica ‘La Citta del L’Acqua’ written on them. The address is Vicolo Del Puttarello, 25. We used google maps and it found it easily. If you are still struggling then head to Harry’s Bar. Which is directly behind the entrance to the underground archaeological area of Vicus Caprarius.

Tickets and opening times for the City of Water in Rome

We reserved our tickets in advance by contacting Vicus Caprarius via WhatsApp. Alternatively, you can chance your luck and just turn up. When we visited at lunchtime on a Friday in February it was quiet and we did not need to book in advance. However, if you are planning on visiting the little-known Roman attraction during peak times. I would still book to make sure. You do not need to pay in advance. When we visited it cost 4€ an adult and Charlie was free. Children between 14-18 years are 1€. When we visited it was open from 11 am to 5 pm Tuesdays to Sundays. Closed on a Monday. Please check the website to ensure these opening hours have not changed before visiting.

How long will you need at Vicus Caprarius?

You will need to allow thirty minutes at least to explore the underground area. We were there for just over half an hour reading all the information and soaking up the atmosphere.

What will you see at Vicus Caprarius?

One of several semi-secret spots we found on our most recent trip to Rome. Vicus Caprarius is small but there is a lot of information avaliable. Entering at street level the remains of the ancient Roman apartment complex is split over two levels. As you enter you can go to the right or to the left. To the right, there is a huge water distribution tank which looks large enough to swim in. Not that you will want to since it is serviced by ancient Roman pipes (lead). There are also a number of bronze coins which must travel along the waterways from the Fontana di Trevi.

The sheer size suggests that it was never intended purely for private use. Instead of servicing the aqueducts of ancient Rome. If you walk past you will enter a small museum area which shows some of the finds during the excavation. These show archaeological evidence of the great events, with fragments of glass, statues, polychrome marble and African pottery. There is even the famous face of Alessandro Helios.

You will also see some underground passages which form different buildings. On the ground floor, you can also see some mosaic tiles which would indicate the homes of ancient upper-class Romans. On the second floor, you get the unique opportunity to walk across the metal walkway inside one of the residences. There is a display cabinet showing some terra-cotta figurines. There are lots of information boards written in both Italian and English. This gives you some background on the eternal city and how the underground aqueduct was discovered in the renovation of the former Cinema Trevi.

What else is there to do nearby?

So what else is there to do near Vicus Caprarius in Rome? Of course, there is the famed fountain. But if you are looking for your next adventure then you are not far from many other tourist sights. You can head east towards the Piazza di Spagna. Or west towards the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. If you are looking for an itinerary for Rome then this may be useful – 3 Days in Rome. It will also give you further suggestions of things to do around Vicus Caprarius.