Roman culture and prehistoric Christian customs can be observed in the underground catacombs beneath the city’s historic streets, dating back to the year 2AD. Slightly outside the city borders, these haunting landmarks draw many visitors even now. The Catacombs of Rome are ancient underground burial grounds dating back to the second to fifth century, primarily used by Christians and Jews. These subterranean passageways served as burial sites for centuries, with Jewish, pagan, and early Christian Roman citizens buried there from the second century to the fifth century. The name “catacomb” comes from the first excavations conducted on the outskirts of Rome, next to a quarry site.

WHY THESE CATACOMBS

Christians built the catacombs in response to the space constraints and exorbitant land costs brought on by pagan funeral customs. They are made up of a maze-like network of underground passages with rows of rectangular holes excavated. Gravestones made of baked clay or marble were laid over the corpses, which were covered in sheets. A Christian symbol was engraved next to the deceased’s name on the cover. Since it was against Roman rule to bury someone inside a city, catacombs were only found outside its walls. Christians could bury their own remains there in a secure environment while honouring Christian symbolism.

WHY VISIT

Explore Rome’s Catacombs: Hidden History, Artistic Wonders, and Mysterious Atmosphere
• Discover hand-carved tunnels, originally mining tunnels, transformed into eternal resting places.
• View intricate carvings, paintings, and restored frescoes on catacomb walls.
• Experience a shift from Rome’s typical atmosphere with intertwining art, history, and myth.
• Explore diverse tombs, from ordinary citizens’ resting places to Cecilia Metella’s grand Mausoleum.
• Exclusive experience: Only five out of 60 catacombs accessible to the public.

WHICH OF THE ROMAN CATACOMBS SHOULD YOU EXPLORE

The Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, the largest and most significant catacomb complex in Rome, are renowned for their vast network of tunnels, Christian burials, and ancient frescoes.

The Catacombs of Domitilla, one of Rome’s oldest and largest, are known for their beautiful frescoes and sculptures reflecting early Christian art.

The Catacombs of Priscilla, named after a generous benefactor, are known for their intricate frescoes, including the earliest known Virgin Mary depiction, and were named after her.

The Catacombs of Saint Sebastian and Santa Agnes are two historical sites that house the remains of Saint Sebastian and Santa Agnes respectively. The former houses Saint Sebastian’s remains and showcases early Christian artwork, while the latter offers insight into early Christian burial practices, including frescoes, intricate carvings, and the final resting place of Saint Agnes.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THESE AMAZING SIGHTS

Explore the catacombs, sacred resting places of early Christians, where the remains of countless individuals, martyrs, and Popes are held.

Marvel at the beautifully preserved frescoes, based on characters from the Old and New Testament, including Noah and Babylonia.

Decode the intricate Christian symbols and allegories depicted in the catacombs, such as a dove with an olive branch, a fish representing Christ, or bread loaves symbolizing funeral meals.

The catacombs are underground burial sites that span miles and can reach heights of 70 ft in some areas. They feature intricate tunnels dug by hand during limestone mining, offering a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of those buried within.

Ancient inscriptions and epitaphs on the walls provide insight into the historical richness of the catacombs. Many Christians consider the catacombs a significant pilgrimage site due to the presence of saints’ burial sites and the connection to martyrs.

Visiting these sacred spaces and witnessing graffiti-adorned crypts adds a unique and meaningful experience.

The Roman Catacombs are an extensive system of tunnels beneath the surface of Rome that were initially constructed by early Christians as a place to bury their dead. Rome’s catacombs, housing more than 150,000 graves, provide witness to the city’s religious and cultural importance. Explore the maze-like tunnels, take in the ornate tombs and frescoes, and learn about the early Christian religion.

The remains of numerous famous historical personalities, including multiple popes, are kept in the catacombs. For those who are interested in architecture, religion, or history, the catacombs—one of the most important burial places in Rome—offer a singular and captivating experience.