Aqueduct – Narni Underground

The Aqueduct

The Roman aqueduct known as the “Formina” was probably built by Nerva (known as the curator aquarum) in 27 AD during the reign of Tiberius. The aqueduct is about 13 km long and maintains a constant slope. It winds along hillsides, tunnels through mountains and crosses rivers.
Adventure is ASSURED! The visit to the aqueduct is only possible from May to October on holidays and pre-holidays by reservation, sending the personal details of the participants at least 10 days in advance. The cost is €30 per person, including the guide, helmet and insurance policy.

The visit

The Subterranea Association gives you the opportunity to discover part of a fascinating Roman aqueduct, the only one in Italy open to the public. You can walk through a section 700 meters long, to understand the difficulties overcome by the workers during the excavation of the rock, admiring the fantastic stonework and finally exiting through a steep staircase carved into the rock from a well 18 meters deep. Spare clothes and shoes are essential. The meeting point in Narni is in Piazza Garibaldi and from there the group is required to use their own transport to arrive at the aqueduct’s entrance, a journey of approximately 8 km. The total duration of the tour is roughly 2 ½ to 3 hours, including the time taken to travel to and from the aqueduct and approximately 1 hour inside the aqueduct itself.

What to wear

In some places the water level can reach knee height so adequate trousers or even shorts ought to be worn. The temperature inside is pleasantly cool, though we recommend wearing a waterproof jacket over a lightweight sweatshirt or even a t-shirt. Although you will be provided with a safety helmet you will need to bring your own flash-light.

Things to know

People suffering from claustrophobia, heart conditions, other debilitating illnesses and even obesity are dissuaded from taking part.
Ideally, children must be over 10 years of age and all minors must be accompanied by an adult.The fauna inside the aqueduct consists of small insects typical of dark, damp environments including the occasional bat.

Info & booking

The visit is made from May 1st to October 30th by appointment, communicating at least 10 days in advance the identity of participants and personal telephone number. The cost is 30 € per person and includes guide, helmet and insurance. The guided tours usually take place on Saturdays and Sundays. Groups must not be less than 4 people and no more than 8. Larger groups will be divided and smaller groups will be joined to others where possible.