Highlight • Historical Site
Rocca Paolina — The Underground City
Hiking
4.9
(97)
Running
5.0
(1)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
The Rocca Paolina Underground City is a captivating historical site nestled beneath the modern streets of Perugia, in the heart of Italy's Umbria region. This unique "underground city" is what remains of a formidable Renaissance fortress, built between 1540 and 1543 by order of Pope Paul III. Situated at an elevation of approximately 472 metres, it offers a fascinating journey through layers of history, revealing ancient Etruscan, Roman, and medieval structures that were once part of the vibrant city above.
Visitors consistently praise the Rocca Paolina for its immersive historical experience, allowing them to literally walk through centuries of Perugia's past. The atmospheric, vaulted passageways evoke a sense of a "lost world," with many finding the contrast between the ancient ruins and the modern escalators particularly striking. It's often described as a "mini-town" beneath the city, providing a cool and intriguing escape, especially during warmer months.
Before visiting this remarkable historical site, it's helpful to know that access is convenient and free. The underground passages are easily reached via escalators that connect Piazza Italia with Piazza Partigiani, making it a practical route for locals and tourists alike. Comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring the cobbled streets and ancient pathways. The Rocca Paolina is generally open daily, offering ample opportunity to delve into its depths.
The Rocca Paolina is an excellent destination year-round, as its underground nature provides a consistent, cool environment. It's ideal for leisurely exploration, offering a unique perspective on urban history. Beyond its historical significance, the site also serves as a dynamic cultural hub, frequently hosting art exhibitions, markets, and various events, making it a lively place to visit.
Walking through the Rocca Paolina, you'll encounter what were once bustling medieval streets, squares, and courtyards. A standout feature is the ancient Porta Marzia, an Etruscan gate from the 3rd century BC, which was ingeniously incorporated into the fortress walls. The experience of riding the escalators through these ancient foundations, revealing secret doors to exhibition spaces, truly makes it feel like entering a hidden world.
To fully appreciate the Rocca Paolina Underground City and its surroundings, explore the diverse routes available. Whether you're interested in a short historical walk or combining your visit with other Perugia landmarks, komoot offers various options to plan your adventure. Discover routes that highlight the city's rich history, from its Etruscan origins to its Renaissance grandeur, ensuring a memorable visit for all.
Tips
September 28, 2022
Hiking
•
March 4, 2024
Hiking
•
Sign up for a free komoot account to get 6 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Rocca Paolina — The Underground City
4.5
(41)
345
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(8)
87
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(11)
83
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 470 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 7 May
24°C
12°C
22 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of Rocca Paolina Underground City?
The Rocca Paolina is a Renaissance fortress built between 1540 and 1543 by Pope Paul III to assert papal authority over Perugia. Its construction involved the destruction of a significant portion of the historic city, including Etruscan, Roman, and medieval structures. The underground passageways you can explore today are former city streets and remnants of the medieval quarter that were buried beneath the fortress.
Are there specific routes or trails to follow within the underground city?
While not a traditional 'trail' in the hiking sense, the Rocca Paolina offers a maze of evocative passageways and chambers. Visitors can follow the main routes that lead through what were once bustling medieval streets, squares, and courtyards. The modern escalators also form a key part of the experience, guiding you through the ancient foundations and connecting different parts of the city center.
What kind of terrain should I expect when exploring Rocca Paolina?
The underground city features cobbled streets and ancient pathways, reflecting its origins as a buried medieval quarter. While generally flat, some areas may have slight inclines or uneven surfaces. Comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring these historical grounds.
Is Rocca Paolina Underground City accessible for families with children or those with mobility concerns?
Yes, Rocca Paolina is considered family-friendly. The presence of modern escalators makes it easily accessible, connecting Piazza Italia with Piazza Partigiani. This system allows for convenient movement through the underground passages, making it suitable for most visitors, including those with strollers or minor mobility challenges. However, some ancient sections might have uneven surfaces.
Can I bring my dog into the Rocca Paolina Underground City?
While the Rocca Paolina is a public thoroughfare and generally accessible, specific rules regarding pets, especially dogs, can vary. It's advisable to check with local Perugia tourism information or signage at the entrance regarding pet policies before your visit.
How long does it typically take to explore Rocca Paolina?
The duration of your visit can vary depending on your interest. Many visitors spend anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour exploring the main passageways and historical remnants. If you take your time to read the informational plaques or visit any temporary exhibitions, your visit might extend to 1.5 to 2 hours.
What are the operating hours for Rocca Paolina Underground City?
The Rocca Paolina is generally open daily for extended hours, often aligning with the operation of the escalator system. As it serves as a pedestrian connection within the city, access is typically available from early morning until late evening. Specific hours can sometimes vary for special events or holidays, so it's always a good idea to check local listings.
Are there any cafes or restaurants directly within or near the Rocca Paolina?
While there are no permanent cafes or restaurants directly within the underground passageways, the Rocca Paolina is located in the heart of Perugia's historical center. Upon exiting, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops within a very short walking distance in Piazza Italia, Piazza Partigiani, and the surrounding streets.
Are there guided tours available for Rocca Paolina, particularly in English?
While the Rocca Paolina can be explored independently, guided tours are often available through local tourism offices or private tour operators in Perugia. These tours frequently offer English-speaking guides who can provide deeper insights into the site's rich history and features. It's recommended to inquire with Perugia's tourist information centers for current tour availability and booking.
What unique features or landmarks should I look out for inside Rocca Paolina?
Be sure to look for the ancient Porta Marzia, an Etruscan gate from the 3rd century BC that was incorporated into the fortress walls. You'll also see remnants of ancient dwellings, bakeries, and workshops along the former medieval streets. The contrast between these ancient structures and the modern escalators is a notable feature, and some areas host temporary art exhibitions or markets.
How does Rocca Paolina compare to other underground attractions in Perugia or Italy?
Rocca Paolina offers a unique blend of historical layers, from Etruscan foundations to medieval streets and Renaissance fortress remnants, all integrated with modern urban infrastructure like escalators. Unlike some other underground sites that might be purely archaeological or catacombs, Rocca Paolina provides a tangible experience of a buried city that was actively used and transformed over centuries, making it a distinctive historical and architectural marvel.