Catacombs in Rome

Catacombs what is it

Ancient Roman cities prohibited burial places within their walls. Therefore, Christians in the 2nd century were unable to bury their dead, so they began digging tunnels just outside the city. The word ‘catacomb‘ originates from the Greek words katà (under) and kymbe (cavity), and its origins can be traced back to the first burial grounds found near natural caves. As time passed, the underground network of tunnels and galleries grew larger.

The practice of catacomb burial declined quickly after the Edict of Milan was passed by Constantine I in 313 giving Christians legal status within the Roman Empire.

The underground relics of Christian martyrs and popes were moved to the aboveground basilicas for safekeeping during the 9th century after Rome was raided several times. In the 16th century, the catacombs were rediscovered after the loculi (wall graves) were gradually emptied. There have been more than 60 different catacombs discovered since then. First Christians had to endure incredible difficulties before they were legally recognized by the state according to the inscriptions on the slabs.

At the moment, only five of them are open to the general public, and they are:

Catacombs of San Sebastiano

The Catacombs of San Sebastiano are located at Via Appia Antica, 136. It is 12 km long and is named after San Sebastiano, a martyred soldier who became a Christian. It is a great experience to visit both of them together with those of San Callisto. Opening hours are 9:00 to 12:00 Monday through Saturday and 14:00 to 17:00 on Sunday.

You can get to the Catacombs of San Sebastiano from the San Giovanni Metro Station. Once you get off, take bus no 218 to Fosse Ardeatine. You can reach the entrance to the catacombs by walking along the Via delle Sette Chiese.

Catacombs of San Calisto

San Calixto’s catacombs are located at 110/126 Via Appia Antica. It has a network of 20 km of galleries and houses the tombs of 16 pontiffs and dozens of Christian martyrs. Opening hours are 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 14:00 p.m. to 17:00 p.m. from Thursday through Tuesday.

Take bus 714 to San Giovanni Laterano from Termini Station. Then take bus 218 and get off near the Fosse Ardeatine. In a few steps, you will find the catacombs entrance.

Catacombs of Priscilla

On Via Salaria, 430, you can find the Catacombs of Priscilla. Some of its interior frescoes are important for the history of art because they are the first representations of the Virgin Mary. Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 17:00 are the opening hours.

Catacombs of Domitilla

The Domitilla Catacombs are located on Via delle Sette Chiese 280. Catacombs with a length of more than 15 km were discovered in 1593 and named after Vespasiano’s granddaughter. Opening hours are 9:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 17:00, Wednesday through Monday.

Catacombs of Sant’Agnese

Catacombs of Saint Agnes are located in Via Nomentana, 349. The catacombs are where Saint Agnes was buried after she was tortured for her Christian faith. The opening times are from 9:00 to 12:00 and from 16:00 to 18:00; the catacombs are closed on Sunday mornings and Monday afternoons.

catacombs rome tour

A Rome Catacombs tour is a wonderful way to get a taste of some of Rome’s darker side, and a great way to get to know it better

What are the Catacombs in Rome?

The Catacombs are underground cemeteries that are located in Rome.

Are there still bodies in the Roman catacombs?

As Christianity was illegal at this time, many early Christians were martyred nearby and their graves remain in the Rome Catacombs.

Are the catacombs in Rome worth seeing?

You will find a wealth of information about the city’s history in the catacombs that you would not otherwise be able to uncover. The Roman catacombs were used as burial grounds for popes, and early Christians used tables and benches for worship down below.

Which is the most famous catacomb of Rome?

There are over ten martyrs and 16 popes buried in the catacombs of San Callisto, probably Rome’s most famous catacomb. It extends almost 20 km.

Can we take pictures in the catacombs?

It’s fine to take pictures. While it is not permitted to touch or rub the remains inside the catacombs, you are free to take as many pictures as you like. There is very dim lighting in the catacombs. It may be necessary to use your flash in certain areas.

What is the dress code for the catacombs?

Since this is an underground location, it can get cold, even when the sun is scorching outside. Pack a lightweight jacket for your tour so you can carry it throughout your excursion. It is not always flat in the catacomb tunnels. As well, you may spend a lot of time on your feet. A comfortable pair of shoes will make your exploration more enjoyable. If you intend to walk a lot, carry a water bottle.