Catacombs of St. Callixtus tours

Catacombs of Callixtus: The city of the dead

Stepping into the Catacombs of Callixtus is like entering a world of mystery and faith. Located along the ancient Appian Way, this underground maze is one of Rome’s oldest and most important burial sites, known as "the little Vatican." It houses the remains of popes and martyrs, reflecting the resilience of early Christians. Named after Pope Callixtus I, who was buried here in the 3rd century AD, these catacombs hold centuries of history. Ready to uncover their secrets? Join us on a guided tour and explore Rome’s most revered catacombs!

Things to know before booking Catacombs of Callixtus tickets and tours

• You cannot visit the Catacombs of Callixtus on your own; entry is only allowed through guided tours. You can also learn about early Christian burial practices, important tombs, and the symbolism behind the intricate frescoes and inscriptions. This added context makes a guided visit far more enriching than exploring on your own.
• Due to high demand, especially in summer and during religious holidays, it's a good idea to book your tickets at least 3 weeks in advance. Last-minute spots are limited, and securing your place ahead of time guarantees you won't miss this unique experience.
• The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are about 20–30 minutes from central Rome. You can take bus routes 218 or 118, or enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Appian Way. However, it may be more convenient to opt for a tour with round-trip transfers included, ensuring hassle-free access.
• You have plenty of options with standalone guided tours of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, or you can combine your visit with nearby sites like St. Sebastian or Domitilla. These tours offer a smooth, hands-free experience with convenient transfers, streamlined itineraries, and enriching insights.
• Please note, the catacombs are not wheelchair accessible and are not recommended for those with claustrophobia or serious mobility issues. There are 50 uneven steps to navigate, and no seating areas or elevators are available.
• Tour group sizes vary. Larger groups might be more affordable, but smaller groups of around 20 offer a more intimate experience. Keep this in mind when selecting your tour.
• The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are closed on Wednesdays, but the nearby Catacombs of St. Sebastian remains open, providing a great alternative.

What’s the best time to visit Catacombs of Callixtus?

The best time to visit the Catacombs of Callixtus is early in the morning (9 AM) for a quieter, more intimate experience. They are open Thursday to Tuesday, with weekdays like Thursday and Monday typically less crowded than weekends. Spring and fall are ideal seasons, offering mild weather for exploring the Appian Way before or after your visit, while summer can be hot and winter chilly underground.

Brief history of the Catacombs of Callixtus

• 1st Century: Christians in Rome did not have dedicated cemeteries and used public necropolises, such as those on Vatican Hill (where St. Peter was buried) and along the Via Ostiense (where St. Paul was buried).
• 2nd Century (early): Christians began burying their dead underground, often expanding family tombs for community use. The Catacombs of Callixtus became one of the first communal Christian burial sites, organized and managed by the Church.
• 313 AD: The Edict of Milan legalized Christianity, allowing Christians to freely worship and own land. The catacombs continued to be used as cemeteries until the 5th century when burials moved above ground to basilicas.
• 8th-9th Century: After barbarian invasions, popes ordered the relics of martyrs and saints to be moved to city churches for protection, leading to the abandonment of most catacombs, including Callixtus.
• Late Middle Ages: The entrances to many catacombs became obstructed and forgotten due to landslides and overgrowth.
• 16th Century: Antonio Bosio rediscovered the catacombs and began their exploration, earning him the title "Columbus of subterranean Rome."
• 19th Century: Giovanni Battista de Rossi conducted systematic studies of the catacombs, including St. Callixtus, becoming the father of Christian archaeology.
• 1930: The Holy See entrusted the care of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus to religious orders for preservation and maintenance.

Visitor tips

• Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. The catacombs can be chilly and have uneven surfaces, so sturdy footwear is essential for navigating the narrow passageways.
• The lighting is dim, so be mentally prepared for a somewhat eerie atmosphere. This adds to the experience but may be unsettling for some visitors.
• Take advantage of the knowledgeable guides. Ask questions during the tour to deepen your understanding of the history and significance of what you’re seeing.
• Maintain a respectful demeanor while inside, as this is a sacred space. Speaking softly enhances the contemplative atmosphere and respects other visitors’ experiences.
• Remember that photography is not permitted inside the catacombs to preserve their sanctity. Focus on absorbing the experience rather than trying to capture it on camera.
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions along the Appian Way, such as the Quo Vadis Church or ancient Roman tombs, to enrich your historical exploration.