A new entrance to the underground of S. Clemente basilica in Rome. A proposal to facilitate and regulate access to visitors

S. Clemente is one of the most significant archeological complexes in Rome characterized by a constant stream of visitors to the Basilica and its underground levels. This large number of visitors makes it necessary to improve the system of access and to provide a route through the various levels, to make visit easier and safer, and for ensuring the preservation of the monument. In the last ten years the possibility of creating a new access to the underground levels and of establishing a route to be followed by the visitor to the complex has been studied. In addition to looking at a particular architectural solution, the project described here pays special attention to meet general requirements of safety and economy of management, which are essential for the preservation and proper appreciation of this important part of our cultural heritage. Alongside the actual proposed work to be carried out, the project involves the implementation of an organizational plan and an extensive set of teaching aids, creating an integrated management scheme for the monument.