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Roman Catacombs, a labyrinth of ancient burial tunnels

Explore the Roman catacombs, a maze of underground tunnels where early Christians buried their dead. These hidden passageways are filled with ancient art and inscriptions. Wander through to see how people lived and remembered their loved ones long...

Founded On

1632

Quick Information

RECOMMENDED DURATION

3 hours

VISITORS PER YEAR

1000000

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

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Did you know?

The Roman Catacombs stretch over 150 kilometers beneath the city, making them one of the largest underground burial sites in the world.

There are more than 60 catacomb complexes in Rome, although only a few are open to the public, including the Catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano.

The catacombs were rediscovered in the 16th century after being forgotten for nearly a thousand years.

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Book Roman Catacombs tours

Catacombs of St. Callixtus Guided Tour
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45 min.
Guided tour
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Catacombs of St. Callixtus Guided Tour with Transfers
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2 hr.
Guided tour
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Capuchin Crypt, Christian Catacombs & San Nicola Basilica Tour with Transfers
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3 hr. 30 min.
Audio guide
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€50.20
Papal Basilicas, St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs Tour with Transfers
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3 hr.
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Purpose of the Catacombs in Rome

The Roman Catacombs served a variety of functions throughout their long history.

  • Burial ground: Originally, the Catacombs in Rome were used as a burial ground for Christians and pagans alike during the Roman Empire when it was illegal to practice Christianity in public. Later, persecuted religious groups and other oppressed communities used them for safe havens, as well as places of worship.
  • Places of learning: The Catacombs served as a space where early Christian scholars could study and teach.
  • Archaeological site: The many valuable artifacts that have been recovered from here have allowed us to better understand the daily lives of those who lived during this period, as well as provide insight into the political and religious systems in place at the time.
  • Cultural symbol: Today, the Catacombs are a popular tourist attraction that serves as a cultural marker for generations to come, providing evidence of a long-lost era in Roman history.
  • Spiritual site: Many Christians from around the world continue to make a pilgrimage to the catacombs to pay homage to their martyrs and Popes buried here. The catacombs contain many relics, including bones, cloth, and objects associated with the Christian martyrs.

Key Catacombs of Rome

Roman Catacombs Intricate Tunnels
Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
Grave of St. Cecilia - Catacombs of Callixtus
Catacombs of Priscilla
Catacombs of Domitilla
Catacomb of Saint Agnes
Catacombs of Praetextatus

Catacombs of Praetextatus

Located along the via Appia, these catacombs were built at the end of the 2nd century. They have a vast underground burial area, initially used for pagan burials and later for Christian martyrs. The complex contains various tombs of Christian martyrs, including the "cubiculum of the coronation," which depicts a rare image of Christ being crowned with thorns and a 4th-century painting of Susanna and the old men in the allegorical guise of a lamb and wolves.

Jewish Catacombs

Timeline of the Roman Catacombs history

  • 1st Century AD: The earliest underground tunnels are excavated by the Etruscans for mining purposes. Jewish communities begin using these tunnels for burial.
  • End of 2nd Century - Early 3rd Century (circa 199-217 AD): Under Pope Zephyrin, large-scale Christian catacombs are established, with the deacon Callixtus supervising the cemetery along the Appian Way.
  • 3rd Century: The catacombs expand significantly as early Christians utilize them for burials due to Roman laws prohibiting burial within city limits.
  • 313 AD: The Edict of Milan is issued by Emperor Constantine, granting religious freedom to Christians. This leads to increased interest in the catacombs as places to find relics of martyrs.
  • 380 AD: Christianity becomes the state religion of the Roman Empire. Despite this, interest in catacomb burials begins to decline as more people opt for burials in church cemeteries.
  • 6th Century: The catacombs are primarily used for memorial services for martyrs, with some frescoes added as late as the 7th century.
  • 10th Century: The catacombs are largely abandoned, and many holy relics are transferred to above-ground basilicas.
  • 16th Century: The catacombs are rediscovered by archaeologist Antonio Bosio, who publishes "Roma Sotterranea" in 1632, sparking renewed interest in these burial sites.
  • 20th Century: Further discoveries occur, including additional catacombs near Rome, enhancing understanding of early Christian practices and ancient Roman society.

Detailed history of the Roman Catacombs

Architecture of the Roman Catacombs

Roman Catacombs - Architecture

The Rome Catacombs do not have a specific architectural style or architect.

The intricate network of tunnels and tombs was carved out of soft rock below the city's surface and expanded through various stages of renovation over the centuries. The catacombs are made up of various levels and are organized into different regions based on their location. 

The catacombs feature narrow passages, burial niches, and small chapels. Some of the catacombs contain inscriptions, frescoes, and artwork depicting early Christian symbols and religious scenes. Additionally, some catacombs featured chapels for worship or for private funerary ceremonies.

Frequently asked questions about the Roman Catacombs

What are the Roman Catacombs?

The Roman Catacombs are a complex network of underground burial sites used by early Christians and Jews in ancient Rome. They were built to allow for the burial of large numbers of people in an area that was not suitable for a traditional cemetery.

What is the main purpose of the Catacombs?

The main purpose of the Catacombs was to provide burial sites for early Christians and Jews in a time when Roman law prohibited any form of non-Roman religious practices. The catacombs also served as places where people could meet in secret, away from the watchful eyes of the authorities.

Which Catacombs should I visit while in Rome?

The Catacombs of St. Callixtus, the Catacombs of San Sebastian, and the Catacombs of Priscilla are some of the most popular and well-preserved catacombs in Rome. All three of these sites are open to visitors and provide a fascinating glimpse into the religious beliefs and practices of early Christians in Rome. It is also possible to visit other catacombs located throughout Rome, such as the Catacombs of Domitilla and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

How old are the Catacombs in Rome?

The Roman Catacombs date back to the 2nd century AD and were used until the 5th century AD.

Why were the Catacombs built?

The Catacombs of Rome were built as places of burial for early Christians who wanted to practice their religious beliefs away from the watchful eyes of Roman authorities. The Catacombs also served as underground rituals and meeting spaces, allowing early Christians and Jews to practice their religion without fear of persecution.

Who were buried in the Catacombs?

The earliest burials belonged to martyrs and other important figures in Christianity, Jewism and other pagan religions. Later burials included those of everyday citizens.

Which Catacombs are open to the public?

Several Catacombs are open to the public, including San Callisto, Domitilla, and Priscilla. You can visit them by opting for one of the many carefully curated experiences that allow you to explore the history and beauty of the Catacombs.

What can visitors expect to see when they visit?

Visitors can expect to see a variety of fascinating artifacts, including frescoes, mosaics, inscriptions, and even carvings on the walls. You can also expect to see a variety of religious art and symbols throughout the Catacombs, giving visitors a unique insight into how religion has shaped Rome over time.

How much does it cost to visit the Catacombs?

The price for visiting the Catacombs may fluctuate based on the selected tour and its duration. Starting at €20, ticket options include access to one or several Catacombs in the city.

Are there guided tours available for the Catacombs in Rome?

Yes, guided tours of Rome's Catacombs are available and are highly recommended, as they offer a comprehensive exploration of the site's history and architecture.