Discover Rome’s somber past, exploring its second-largest catacombs featuring an underground basilica.
Discover Rome’s somber past, exploring its second-largest catacombs featuring an underground basilica.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Piazza d'Aracoeli
Begin your guided tour from this central location in Rome, and end it at the Capuchin Crypt.
6 km
18 minutes
1
Catacombs of Domitilla
40 min
Tickets included
Home to some of the grandest cubicula around, these catacombs boast an intricate network of tunnels and a 2nd-century semi-undergound Basilica dedicated to Saints Nereus and Achilleus.
6.8 km
22 minutes
2
Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars
Tickets included
This part of the tour is unguided – turn up your audio guide and independently explore the hauntingly beautiful chapels decorated by skeletal art, blending the macabre with the spiritual.
3
Crypts & Catacombs: Art made of Bone, dark stories of burial chambers, and no travel stress.
Crypts & Catacombs: Art made of Bone, dark stories of burial chambers, and no travel stress.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Explore Rome’s largest catacombs with an expert guide and optional transfers.
Explore Rome’s largest catacombs with an expert guide and optional transfers.
Inclusions
Exclusions
See the remains of 4,000 friars with fast-track entry and audio guide, or upgrade for transfers and guided catacombs tour.
See the remains of 4,000 friars with fast-track entry and audio guide, or upgrade for transfers and guided catacombs tour.
Inclusions
Address: Via delle Sette Chiese, 282, 00147 Roma RM, Italy
The Domitilla Catacombs are located on the Via delle Sette Chiese, just south of the ancient Appian Way.
By bus: Take bus line 716 departing from Piazza Venezia. Get off at Piazza Odescalchi/Bompiani, then take a 3-minute walk towards the left side of the road to arrive at the entrance.
By metro: Take the metro to Garbatella station and walk approximately 30 minutes to the catacombs.
Roman catacombs location & directionsThe catacombs feature a unique semi-underground basilica dedicated to Saints Nereus and Achilleus, as well as Saint Petronilla. This basilica, constructed in the fourth century, includes three naves separated by columns and a main altar adorned with a rare depiction of the beheading of Achilleus.
This area is one of the oldest parts of the catacombs, dating back to the end of the second century AD. It contains significant sarcophagi belonging to important members of the Flavian family.
Inside, you’ll find representations of biblical scenes such as Noah's Ark, Daniel in the lion's den, and various depictions of Jesus with his apostles. There are also non-biblical images reflecting pagan beliefs, such as seasonal personifications.
The walls of the catacombs are adorned with various frescoes that reflect early Christian iconography. Notable artworks include:
The catacombs consist of various types of tombs, including:
No, entry to the Catacombs of Domitilla is only allowed through guided tours. This helps preserve the fragile architecture and provide the best context on the complex history encased within its tunnels.
While there is no age restriction for visiting, the underground passages may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues due to their narrow and dimly lit nature. Children up to 6 years old can enter for free.
People with claustrophobia may find the long, dark, and narrow tunnels uncomfortable. Those with mobility issues should be aware that the site involves steep steps and uneven surfaces, making it challenging to navigate.
You can customize your guided tour with transfers to also visit San Nicola in Carcere, and access the Capuchin Crypt!
Since this is a space of religious and cultural significance, visitors are required to dress modestly. Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders is the way to go.