Crypta Balbi (Balbi Crypt), Rome

Perhaps the most intriguing branch of the National Museum of Rome is Crypta Balbi standing atop the 13th-century Theater of Balbus’ remains. The latter, complete with numerous medieval artifacts filling up three floors, were uncovered during archaeological excavations.

They say the best way to explore this museum is by working one's way upward, starting from the basement, walking through dark passageways amid the theater's ancient columns, checking out, among other remnants of the past, a fragment of an ancient depot once used for stocking grains gathered from the nearby farms.

The museum offers a visual journey through the history of Rome, showcasing images from its earliest days to the present. It also displays a variety of artifacts from different historical periods, including pottery, glass fragments, seals, ivory, coin collections, precious stones, medieval frescoes, marble slabs, and more.

Archaeology enthusiasts will be particularly fascinated by the 3D reproductions of Roman buildings from various eras.

Why You Should Visit:
An extremely interesting site for the story of the stratification of the city it tells.
You can see all of the layers of Rome's development history in cross-section.
An excellent relaxing way to get one's mind around life in ancient Rome.

Tip:
A ticket to Crypta Balbi also grants access to three other branches of the National Museum of Rome: Palazzo Massimo, Baths of Diocletian, and Palazzo Altemps. This ticket is valid for three days and offers excellent value for money.