IMPERIAL PALACE & POPES
Sunday November 16 – Sunday November 23 2025
SPACES AVAILABLE
”Rome is a city with a universal spirit. This spirit wants to be at the service of charity, at the service of welcome and hospitality.
Pope Francis, 2024
A seven-day deep dive into the imperial and papal layers of Rome and its surrounding countryside. Join archaeologist and host Darius Arya for a curated journey through emperors’ palaces, Christian legacies, and papal retreats. This intimate small group tour (maximum 12 guests) offers behind-the-scenes access to some of the most compelling and often-overlooked sites in Lazio.
Thursday, November 20 – ARCINAZZO & SUBIACO
Mountain Retreats: Trajan and Nero
Venture into the Apennines to visit the expansive Villa of Trajan at Arcinazzo Romano. Continue to Subiaco, where you’ll explore Nero’s villa and the medieval monastery and church, a birthplace of Benedictine monasticism.
Meals: Lunch
ABOUT YOUR HOST
Dr Darius Arya Ph.D.
Darius Arya is an archaeologist, scholar, lecturer and television host who has been immersed in Ancient Rome since childhood. He has a BA in Classical History from the University of Pennsylvania and a PhD in Roman Archaeology from the University of Texas (Austin).
As a practicing field archaeologist, he has supervised excavations in the Rome Forum, Roman suburbs and Ostia Antica. Darius is the founder of Ancient Rome Live, a online educational platform showcasing history and pioneering archaeology, and director of the of 501(c)3 non-profit American Institute for Roman Culture. Immersive content is his passion and has led him to host more than 20 international documentaries for History Channel, PBS, Wondrium, RAI5, National Geographic and Discovery, as well YouTube channel @DariusArya.
Fellow of the UNC
Global Research Institute
Fellow of The Explorers Club
Fellow American Academy (2002)
Fulbright Scholar
Inclusions
- All meals and beverages, as detailed in the itinerary
- All guided touring, admission fees, site transport and activities, as detailed in the itinerary
- Expert guides and drivers, including your host and the 24/7 support of Ancient Rome Live’s partners on the ground
- Expert travel team to plan all excursion details
- Custom trip planning for add-on travel is available; please inquire
- Participants can opt to receive educational credit for an added cost of $75 per person
Exclusions
- Hotel Accommodations
- Airport Transfers
- Optional activities and expenses
- All gratuities
- Trip insurance
Itineraries may be subject to change should there be any unforeseen events or closures. We do not accept liability for change in itinerary due to reasons beyond our control. We will be flexible and take advantage of our deep knowledge and network to provide the best possible experience. Uncompleted portions of the itinerary are not cause for refund.
$3800 USD per person
Deposit: $1900
Remaining balance due August 1: $1900
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many participants will there be?
6 to 12 guests, who you’ll meet prior to the trip in group Google Meets hosted by Darius each month (starting in July 2025) where he will introduce everyone, discuss the program and field questions.
Is this an academic trip?
No, this is not an academic trip nor credited course. That being said, Darius is happy to share his curated reading list before you arrive, and, if interested, you can receive educational credit.
What if I have some questions?
Sign up for a Google Meet chat with Darius.
How do I sign up?
Easy. Send sign up request to assistant@romanculture.org. We will send you deposit payment information. Your deposit secures your spot.
What happens next?
Once confirmed, Darius will send you a Calendly link so that you can set up a private Google Meet to talk with him one-on-one about itinerary and more.
When is final payment due?
Balance remainder is due on August 1, 2025. We’ll send you a reminder. Click here to review our Terms & Conditions.
What’s the best airport?
Leonardo da Vinci Rome Fiumicino Airport FCO.
The visits are in the mornings. What is there to do in the afternoon?
Site visits are programmed each day between 8:30 and 2pm, giving you the afternoon to explore, however there will be some full days. Darius will be walking around and is always happy to have you join him. Evenings are yours to enjoy and if you want a little help, we have suggestions for restaurants.
