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- Rome Catacombs
- Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
- Catacombs of Callixtus
- Capuchin Crypt
- Catacombs of Domitilla
- Catacombs of Saint Agnes
- Catacombs of Commodilla
- Catacombs of Priscilla
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Book Catacombs of Saint Sebastian Tickets
Follow your expert guide around tunnels spanning 19km across four levels in Rome's largest catacomb complex!
- Walk along the crypts where early popes and bishops were laid to rest, giving the Catacombs of St. Callixtus its moniker 'little Vatican'.
- Engage with the cultural significance of this millennia-old burial and worship site in the language of your comfort.
- Intriguing iconography and frescoes emerge as you wander amidst tombs of varying complexity, from small loculi to grander arcosolia!
Follow your expert guide around tunnels spanning 19km across four levels in Rome's largest catacomb complex!
- Walk along the crypts where early popes and bishops were laid to rest, giving the Catacombs of St. Callixtus its moniker 'little Vatican'.
- Engage with the cultural significance of this millennia-old burial and worship site in the language of your comfort.
- Intriguing iconography and frescoes emerge as you wander amidst tombs of varying complexity, from small loculi to grander arcosolia!
Inclusions
- Guided tour of St. Callixtus Catacombs with entry
- Expert English, Italian, German, French, or Spanish-speaking guide
Exclusions
- Round-trip transfers from Rome
- Tip: Look out for carved symbols on graves, like the Good Shepherd, an example of early Christian imagery.
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible, and not recommended for those with claustrophobia or serious mobility issues.
- There are 50 irregular steps to descend and ascend, with no seating area or elevator.
- Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
- Photography and videography is prohibited inside the catacombs.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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What our guests say
Sandra
Dec 2024Verified booking
It was the best guide in the world written by Abel and we went to the Colosseum and I loved it. We Abel's parents were delighted with his explanation and sympathy.
View original review in Spanish
Filiz
Oct 2024Verified booking
The tour started about 10 minutes later. This meant that we were there about 30 minutes too early in total and were quite a way off. It was very, very crowded. Unfortunately, we could or had to listen to the explanations of the previous and following group (different languages). After about 40-45 minutes on site, we were already finished.
View original review in German
Matthew
Aug 2024Verified booking
This was a great experience and the guide did so well explaining the whole history of the catecombs and made the tour vivid and interesting. We would definitely recommned this as a very worthwhile tour.
BOURNE
Apr 2024Verified booking
Very interesting guide from a historical point of view, but he made some very heavy remarks about the members of the group (about my grandson's looks, for example) that didn't go down well. He spent more time making (heavy-handed) remarks or jokes than talking about the history of this place. I regret having chosen this activity in Rome.
View original review in French
Cristina
Nov 2024Verified booking
I liked it, very interesting and very well explained and attended.
View original review in Spanish
Julie
Nov 2024Verified booking
Extremely interesting tour. The guide was very knowledgable and would thoroughly recommend.
Szabolcs
Nov 2024Verified booking
Very good management, perfect knowledge of German.
View original review in German
Ana
Oct 2024Verified booking
The guide was very friendly and answered all the questions we had. A very nice and interesting experience.
View original review in Spanish
Viktoria
Oct 2024Verified booking
We really enjoyed it. Lots of information and an experienced guide.
View original review in German
Wil
Sep 2024Verified booking
Very informative, well organised and exciting!
Claire
Sep 2024Verified booking
We loved this! It was an amazing experince and the gudie was impormative and friendly.
ARTEMIS
Mar 2024Verified booking
The tour guide was amazing very kind, funny and full of information
Nathan
Dec 2024Verified booking
Antonio
Dec 2024Verified booking
Gianni
Nov 2024Verified booking
Claes
Nov 2024Verified booking
Hazel
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Michael
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Top things to do in Rome
Quick Facts about the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
- Official name: Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
- Address: Via Appia Antica, 136, 00179 Rome, Italy
- Date of opening: 3rd century AD
- Timings: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM
- Function: Underground cemetery for early Christians and the entombment of Saint Sebastian
Why Visit the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian?
- Step back in time: Journey through an underground cemetery that dates back to the early Christian era. Learn about the role it played in the history of early Christianity.
- Spiritual significance: Walk in the footsteps of saints and martyrs and gaze upon beautifully carved tombs and inscriptions that offer a glimpse into the faith of the early Christian community.
- Crypt of Saint Sebastian: Pay your respects to the remains of the early Christian martyr entombed in this crypt.
- Architectural marvel: Admire the winding passageways, intricate carvings, and delicate frescoes that make up this fascinating complex.
Plan Your Visit to the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
Catacombs of Saint Sebastian's Opening Hours
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM, daily
Closed: January 1, and the month of December.
Best time to visit: It is recommended to visit the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.
Rome Catacombs Timings
Catacombs of Saint Sebastian Location
Address: Via Appia Antica 136, 00179 Rome, Italy.
The Catacombs of Saint Sebastian are located on the Appian Way, a historic road that leads out of Rome to the southeast. The nearest landmark is the Basilica di San Sebastiano fuori le mura, a church dedicated to Saint Sebastian that is located above the catacombs.
Getting to the Catacombs in RomeWhat's Inside the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian?
Crypt of Saint Sebastian
This sacred space serves as the final resting place for the remains of Saint Sebastian, an early Christian martyr who was killed during the Roman Emperor Diocletian's reign in the 3rd century AD. While the remains were moved to the basilica above in the 13th century, you can still see his empty tomb in the crypt and pay your respects to his memory.
Tombs and Sarcophagi
The catacombs contain an intricate network of narrow passageways that are lined with beautifully carved tombs and sarcophagi. These burial sites date back to the early Christian era and are a testament to the early Christians' faith and traditions. It's worth noting that the catacombs also contain some pagan tombs and inscriptions, as well as Jewish symbols, showcasing the diverse historical and religious significance of the site.
Ancient Inscriptions and Frescoes
As you wander through the catacombs, you'll encounter ancient inscriptions and delicate frescoes that offer insights into the religious beliefs and practices of early Christians. These artistic representations tell stories of faith, including scenes from the Old and New Testaments such as Noah's Ark, Daniel in the Lion's Den, Jonah and the Whale, the Good Shepherd, and the Resurrection of Lazarus.
Museum of Sarcophagi
You will find a collection of ancient sarcophagi here. Dating back to the 3rd century AD, these intricately decorated sarcophagi feature scenes from the Bible and Christian symbols, providing a glimpse into the art and symbolism of the time.
Mausoleums of the Piazzola
Near the entrance of the catacombs, you'll find the Mausoleums of the Piazzola. These circular mausoleums, dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, belonged to wealthy Roman families.
Triclia
A portico where pilgrims used to gather to venerate Saints Peter and Paul, the Tricilia is covered with hundreds of graffiti invocations to the apostles, some written in Greek and Latin, the Triclia offers a glimpse into the devotion and spiritual practices of early Christians.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
What is the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian?
The Catacombs of Saint Sebastian are an underground cemetery in Rome that date back to the early Christian era and were used as a burial place for early Christians during a time of persecution.
What is the Crypt of Saint Sebastian?
The crypt of Saint Sebastian is the burial site of the remains of Saint Sebastian, a Christian martyr who was killed during the Roman Emperor Diocletian's reign in the 3rd century AD. It is highly revered by Christians and a place of pilgrimage for the faithful.
What is the significance of the catacombs of Saint Sebastian?
The catacombs of Saint Sebastian are one of the oldest and most important Christian burial sites in Rome. They show how the early Christians lived, worshipped, and died for their faith. They also preserve the relics of many saints and martyrs who inspired generations of Christians. They are one of the seven pilgrimage churches of Rome and a testimony of the early Christian faith.
What is the origin of the name of the catacombs of Saint Sebastian?
The catacombs of Saint Sebastian were originally called ad catacumbas, meaning "near the hollows", because of the nearby pozzolana quarries. This term later became synonymous with underground Christian burial chambers. The catacombs were renamed after Saint Sebastian, a Christian martyr who was buried there in 350 AD.
When are Catacombs of Saint Sebastian open?
The Catacombs of Saint Sebastian are open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, except on January 1, and the month of December.
Is there an entry fee for the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian?
Yes, there is an entry fee for the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian. The entry tickets cost €8 for adults 17 years and above. Kids aged seven to 16 years, students with valid ID cards, and priests get a €3 discount and pay only €5 to enter. Children under six years and caregivers for people with disabilities are free. The entry tickets include a guided tour in a chosen language with the catacombs staff.
What can I see in the catacombs of Saint Sebastian?
The catacombs of Saint Sebastian consist of four levels of tunnels and chambers, containing thousands of tombs and sarcophagi, some decorated with frescoes and inscriptions. The catacombs also house some pagan and Jewish burials, as well as three circular mausoleums on the surface. The catacombs also have a portico called triclia, where pilgrims used to gather to venerate Saints Peter and Paul. The wall of the triclia is covered with graffiti invocations to the apostles.
What are the relics in the Basilica of Saint Sebastian?
The Basilica of Saint Sebastian, built over the catacombs in the 4th century AD by Emperor Constantine, contains several relics related to Saint Sebastian and other saints. Some of these relics are the arrow that pierced Saint Sebastian during his martyrdom, a set of marble footprints attributed to Jesus, a stone with an imprint of Jesus' face, a fragment of the column where Jesus was scourged, and a piece of wood from his cross.
Can visitors take photographs inside the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian?
Photography is allowed on the tour but without flash. However, commercial or drone photography is strictly prohibited.
Is there a dress code for visiting the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian?
Visitors are advised to dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes as the catacombs have uneven surfaces and stairs. Covering one's shoulders and knees is an absolute must.
