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
RECOMMENDED DURATION
3 hours
Timings
Closed today
VISITORS PER YEAR
1000000
TICKETS
From € 12
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
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.
The Christian catacombs in Rome are underground burial sites used by early Christians for burials, worship, and honoring martyrs during times of persecution. With over 40 discovered, a few stand out for their historical and artistic treasures, like the Catacombs of San Sebastiano, Priscilla, Domitilla, and Sant’Agnese. These sacred spaces give you a glimpse into early Christian faith and resilience.
Start exploringLocated on the Appian Way, this cemetery features impressive ancient Roman architecture and is the final resting place of Saint Sebastian, a Christian martyr. You can view arches that once divided the nave of the original church, which was built in the 13th century, and sarcophagi, dating back to the 4th century.
Book toursThis is one of the largest and most important catacombs in Rome, known for its numerous underground galleries spread over 90 acres. Built after 150 AD, you will find tombs of 16 early popes, including Pope Sixtus II and Pope Pontian, and Christian martyrs here, earning it the name ‘Little Vatican’.
Book toursNicknamed the “Queen of the Catacombs,” these are located on the Via Salaria across from the Villa Ada. They are famous for their early Christian art, including frescoes depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments and the earliest known image of the Virgin Mary. These catacombs likely derive their name from the landowner on whose property they were built and are now looked after by the Benedictine nuns of Priscilla.
Learn moreLocated near the Catacombs of San Callisto, the Catacombs of Domitilla are a sprawling network of caves that span over 17 kilometers (11 miles). Named after Saint Domitilla, these catacombs are one of the largest and most impressive in Rome, featuring stunning frescoes and sculptures that depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments. Visitors can also see the remains of an early Christian basilica that was built in the 4th century and was one of the largest in Rome.
Book toursNamed after the virgin and martyr Saint Agnes, the only martyr buried in the catacomb mentioned in the ancient documents. It is located at the second mile of via Nomentana, inside the monumental complex of Sant'Agnese fuori le mura, in the Quartiere Trieste. The complex is divided into four regions and is rich in epigraphic testimonies.
History & highlights of St. Agnes CatacombsLocated 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.
There are six known Jewish catacombs in Rome, but only two, Vigna Randanini and Villa Torlonia, are open to the public. These catacombs were discovered in 1918 and span over 13,000 square meters. They date back to the period between the 2nd and 3rd centuries and possibly remained in use until the 5th century. Visitors can see rare frescoes depicting classic Jewish religious symbols, as well as parts of the Old Testament.
Origin and significance of Jewish Catacombs in RomeThe 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.
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.
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.
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.
The Roman Catacombs date back to the 2nd century AD and were used until the 5th century AD.
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.
The earliest burials belonged to martyrs and other important figures in Christianity, Jewism and other pagan religions. Later burials included those of everyday citizens.
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.
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.
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.
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.