Catacombs of Saint Agnes | Resting Place of the Virgin Martyr

What are the Catacombs of Saint Agnes?

Catacomb of Saint Agnes, or Catacombe di Sant'Agnese in Italian, is a subterranean necropolis in Rome, named after Saint Agnes, a virgin and martyr. This ancient labyrinth of tombs, embedded within the monumental complex of Sant'Agnese fuori le mura, is a testament to Rome's early Christian history. The catacomb itself spans three levels, divided into four regions, each carrying its unique narrative of the past. This historic place is devoid of any significant paintings, but the epigraphic testimonies make it an intriguing landmark for history enthusiasts.

History of Catacomb of Saint Agnes

In the second half of the 3rd century, the area was used as a hypogeum cemetery. It is presumed that the cemetery was owned by the martyr Saint Agnes's family. Situated near the imperial property, the catacomb complex was developed over time. 

Pope Liberius constructed a memorial in Saint Agnes's honor during his papacy (352-366), which Pope Symmachus (498–514) later transformed into a small basilica. This basilica was replaced by a larger one by Pope Honorius I in the 7th century, which led to some damage to the original cemetery.

The original burial nucleus was enlarged in the 4th century, creating three new regions. The fourth region was used by Emperor Constantine, to build a basilica dedicated to Saint Agnes, and the mausoleum of Santa Costanza, which is the final resting place of his daughters, Constantina and Helena. This construction led to the destruction of a 2nd-century pagan necropolis,

After a period of abandonment, the catacomb complex was rediscovered in the early 16th century by Dominican friar Onofrio Panvinio. It was later studied by Antonio Bosio in his work "Subterranean Rome". The 18th century saw considerable damage inflicted by relic hunters, particularly in the second region. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, key figures like Mariano Armellini and Augusto Bacci undertook excavations, aiding in preserving and understanding the catacomb's history. The fourth region was finally studied in-depth during the 1970s by Umberto Maria Fasola, providing crucial insights into its past.

Catacomb of Saint Agnes Today

The Catacombs of Saint Agnes are an important archaeological site that offers valuable insights into early Christian burial practices and the persecution faced by early Christians. Visitors to the site can learn about the history of the catacombs, view the decorative features, and pay their respects to Saint Agnes. Today, the catacombs serve as a reminder of the early Christian faith and the strength of Saint Agnes's conviction.