Welcome to Our Complete Guide to the Catacombs of Rome!
The catacombs of Rome date back to the 2nd century AD, serving as underground cemeteries and places of worship during times of persecution.
With over 60 catacombs throughout the city, only a select few are open to the public, including St. Callixtus, St. Sebastian, Domitilla, Priscilla, Sant'Agnese, and Marcellinus and Peter. These intricate tunnels stretch over 170 kilometers, holding around 750,000 graves.
Explore the 3 most famous catacombs along the ancient Appian Way, part of the Park of the Appian Way (Parco Regionale dell'Appia Antica), where history, art, and faith intersect.
Tickets for The Catacombs of Rome
The only way to visit the catacombs of Rome is to take a guided tour.
This means that even if you want to explore the catacombs without a group and buy tickets just for entry to the respective sites, you can only visit them accompanied by a guide, who is included in the price of the ticket.
Here are the best tickets with the highest rates and the most reviews that we have compiled for you:
A Brief History of the Catacombs of Rome
The Catacombs of Rome date back to the 2nd century AD, when Christians faced challenges with burial practices due to restrictions within city limits and expensive burial plots.
To address this, they created underground burial sites, known as catacombs, on the city's outskirts.
These served not only as cemeteries but also as places for secret worship during times of persecution.
Constructed beneath the soft volcanic rock called tuff, these catacombs span multiple levels, featuring narrow passageways lined with burial niches (loculi) and larger family tombs (cubicles). Some catacombs even showcase early Christian art and frescoes.
By the 5th century, with the acceptance of Christianity, catacomb construction ceased, but these sites remain historically and religiously significant. Today, they offer a glimpse into early Christian life and art, reflecting the resilience of the community.
1. Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are the oldest and best-preserved along the Via Appia, named after Pope St. Callixtus (217-222). This complex, dating back to the late 2nd century AD, includes 20 kilometers of interconnected tunnels and the Crypt of the Popes, known as the "little Vatican." It houses the tombs of nine popes and eight bishops, along with the Crypt of St. Cecilia, featuring a statue and paintings of the martyred noblewoman.
2. Catacombs of St. Sebastian
- Originally a pagan site, the Catacombs of St. Sebastian were converted into a Christian necropolis and named after St. Sebastian, who was martyred in 298 AD. The site includes the Cubicle of Jonah, with 4th-century frescoes depicting the biblical story of Jonah, and the Basilica of St. Sebastian, which stands above the catacombs.
3. Catacombs of Domitilla
- Among the largest in Rome, the Catacombs of Domitilla were developed between the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD on land owned by Flavia Domitilla. They feature an extensive network over four levels and the Basilica of Saints Nereus and Achilleus, dedicated to two martyrs. The catacombs include the Flavian Hypogeum and significant frescoes, such as the Epiphany in the "Madonna Catacombs."
Things to Do at the Catacombs of Rome
What Can I See Inside the Catacombs of Rome?
1. The Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Crypt of the Popes: Final resting place for nine popes and eight bishops, known as the "Little Vatican."
- Crypt of St. Cecilia: Features a statue of Saint Cecilia and frescoes from the 3rd century.
- Cubicoli dei Sacramenti: Oldest frescoes depicting Baptism and the Eucharist.
2. The Catacombs of St. Sebastian
- Cubicle of Jonah: 4th-century frescoes depicting scenes from the story of Jonah.
- Crypt of St. Sebastian: Dedicated to the saint who was martyred in 298 AD.
- Basilica of St. Sebastian: Explore the impressive basilica above the catacombs.
3. The Catacombs of Domitilla
- Flavian Hypogeum: Oldest part, housing sarcophagi of prominent family members.
- Underground Basilica: Dedicated to Saints Nereus and Achilleus, martyred under Emperor Diocletian.
- Madonna Catacombs: Frescoes from the 3rd and 4th centuries including a depiction of the Epiphany.
Where Are the Catacombs of Rome Located?
The catacombs are located throughout Rome, with the 3 most famous along the Appian Way.
- Catacombs of St. Callixtus: Via Appia Antica, 110 | Google Maps
- Catacombs of St. Sebastian: Via Appia Antica, 136 | Google Maps
- Catacombs of Domitilla: Via delle Sette Chiese, 282 | Google Maps
How to Get to the Catacombs of Rome
Using Public Transport
- Metro Line A to Arco di Travertino or Line B to Circo Massimo. From these stations, take buses 660 or 118 to reach the catacombs.
- Guided Bike Tours and Bus Transfers are also available for a convenient and informative visit.
Opening Hours of the Catacombs of Rome
- St. Callixtus: Daily except Wednesday, 9 am - 12 noon, 2 pm - 5 pm.
- St. Sebastian: Daily, 10 am - 5 pm.
- Domitilla: Daily except Tuesday, 9 am - 12 noon, 2 pm - 5 pm.
Facilities and Services at the Catacombs of Rome
- Bike Rentals: Explore the Appian Way with rental bikes from points like EcoBike or Casa del Parco.
- Restrooms and Cafes: Available at several park locations. Plan ahead as there are no facilities inside the catacombs.
Traveler Tips
- Book Early: Tours fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Walking through uneven terrain is part of the tour.
- Bring a Light Jacket: The underground tunnels can be chilly, even in summer.
Lesser-known Fun Facts & Secrets of the Catacombs
1. Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Secret Symbols: Early Christian symbols like the fish and Good Shepherd were used as signs.
- Ancient Graffiti: Carved prayers and messages offer insights into early Christian life.
2. Catacombs of Domitilla
- Flavian Hypogeum: Connected to the Flavian family and Roman imperial dynasty.
- Largest Network: Over 17 kilometers of tunnels with an estimated 150,000 burials.
3. Catacombs of St. Sebastian
- Mixed Burial Grounds: Originally a pagan site before becoming a Christian necropolis.
- Relics of Saints Peter and Paul: Believed to have been housed here during the Valerian persecution.
Other Catacombs of Rome Open to the Public
There are six catacombs in Rome open to the public. Besides the well-known Catacombs of St. Callixtus, St. Sebastian, and Domitilla, here are the other three you can visit:
1. Catacombs of Priscilla: Known as the "Queen of the Catacombs", dating back to the 2nd century, this site is famous for its ancient Christian art and the large number of martyrs buried here.
Highlights:
- Frescoes: Home to the earliest known depiction of the Madonna and Child.
- Greek Chapel: Decorated with frescoes of biblical scenes and Christian symbols.
- Crypt of the Veiled Woman: Features a fresco of a woman in prayer, symbolizing the soul's journey to heaven.
- Address: 430, Via Salaria, 00199 Roma
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2. Catacombs of St. Agnes: Located near the Basilica of St. Agnes Outside the Walls, this site dates back to the 3rd century and is named after the young martyr, St. Agnes.
Highlights:
- Basilica of St. Agnes: Houses the relics of St. Agnes.
- Mosaics: Intricate mosaics depicting Christian symbols and biblical scenes.
- Tomb of St. Agnes: A key site for pilgrims and visitors.
- Address: 349, Via Nomentana, 00162 Roma
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3. Catacombs of Marcellinus and Peter: Named after two martyrs beheaded during Emperor Diocletian’s reign, these catacombs from the 4th century are known for their vibrant frescoes.
Highlights:
- Frescoes: Depictions of biblical stories and early Christian life.
- Martyrs' Crypt: Burial site of Saints Marcellinus and Peter, with inscriptions honoring their sacrifice.
- Ancient Inscriptions: Provide insights into early Christian burial practices.
- Address: 641, Via Casilina, 00177 Roma
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The Catacombs of Rome offer a unique window into early Christian history. Whether exploring the Crypt of the Popes or marveling at the frescoes in Domitilla, this journey through Rome’s underground history is an unforgettable experience. Be sure to explore nearby sites like the Colosseum and Roman Forum for a comprehensive view of the city’s rich past.