What are the chances you run into your friends on a Saturday afternoon at the Roman Colosseum? Well, it happened and luckily our Milanese friend suggested a visit to her favorite building in the city, three layers of history, and centuries, on top of each other. A somewhat under the radar archeological gem just a 10 minute walk from the Colosseum.

Basilica San Clemente was built in the 12th century, however another basilica from the 4th century was discovered underneath it only 164 years ago. As you walk through this excavated structure one floor below, you can't help but think you are standing on the same stone floors that were put in place 17 centuries earlier. Yet, there is even one more floor below this second basilica. After descending steep and narrow stone stairs, we entered a nobleman's dwelling from the 2nd century. We were three full levels below what is current day Rome, and you have to believe there is yet even more beneath that!

I am Kimberly Holcombe and I am a travel planner and lover of all things Italian. I lived in Italy for six years as a fashion photographer, and fell head over heels for the people and the culture. I plan private trips to anywhere in Italy for individuals, couples, families and small groups of friends.

• Instagram
• Website
• Facebook