Explore Catacombs in Rome
The Catacombs of San Sebastiano and are named after San Sebastiano who was a soldier but was martyred for having converted to Christianity. Here you can find the Baroque Basilica of Saint Sebastian which is one of the seven pilgrimages in Rome. In the first left chapel, there is a statue of Saint Sebastian and his remains are kept in the crypt.
Location: Via Appia Antica, 136
Opening time: Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM.
Book Now: The Catacombs of San Sebastiano Guided Tour Tickets
The Catacombs of San Callisto are composed of underground tunnels that stretch for 20 kilometres. These catacombs which were built with few private chambers and a funeral area were extended by Saint Callixtus and became the official cemetery of the Catholic Church. You can find the remains of 50 martyrs and 16 pontiffs here.
Location: Appia Antica, 110/126
Opening time: Thursday to Tuesday – 9 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM.
You can also book: Official Guided Tour of the Catacombs of St Callixtus
The Catacombs of Priscilla run 35 metres below the ground level and house 40 burial remains including six Popes. The catacombs are well known for the Cubicle of the Velata where you can find important fresco paintings of the first representation of Virgin Mary, Old Testament and Greek Chapel.
Location: Via Salaria, 430
Opening time: Tuesday to Sunday– 9 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM.
Book your tickets now: Priscilla Catacomb Tickets
The Catacombs of Domitilla are large structures that run for more than 17 kilometres. Discovered later in 1593, these catacombs are named after the granddaughter of Vespasian. The Domitilla Catacombs were managed by Divine Word Missionaries, a Roman Catholic Society of Priests and Brothers at the request of the Vatican.Location: Via delle Sette Chiese, 280Opening time: 9 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM.
Named after Saint Agnes of Rome, the Catacombs of Sant’Agnese were constructed for the preservation and veneration of the remains of this virgin martyr. Her bones are now conserved in Sant'Agnese fuori le mura church built over the catacombs while her skull is sustained in the side chapel of Sant'Agnese church in Piazza Navona.Location: Via Nomentana, 349Opening time: 9 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM to 6 PM The catacombs are closed on Sunday mornings and Monday afternoons.
The Catacombs of Anapo date back to the end of the 3rd century or the start of the fourth century. They are known for the long art gallery that split into several branches. These underground passages contain a plethora of fresco paintings about biblical subjects taken from the Old and New Testaments.Location: Via Salaria
History of Roman Catacombs
Why Visit the Catacombs of Rome?
What are the Catacombs nowadays?
There are more than sixty catacombs in Rome but only five of these are accessible now by the public.- Catacombs of San Sebastiano run for 12 kilometres and are named after soldier San Sebastiano who was martyred for converting to Christianity.
- Catacombs of San Calixto are composed of 20 galleries and the burials of 16 pontiffs and several Christian martyrs.
- Catacombs of Priscilla are known for the beautiful fresco paintings preserved for the history of art.
- Catacombs of Domitilla are 15 kilometres long underground passages discovered in 1593.
- Catacombs of Saint Agnes are named after Agnes who was buried in the site of these catacombs.
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Facts About Roman Catacombs
In the 16th century, Antonio Bosio rediscovered the Catacombs from the 5th century when he inadvertently lost his way within the intricate tunnels of St. Domitilla. The Roman Catacombs, accessible today, represent only a portion of the extensive underground network, with numerous concealed tunnels still remaining undiscovered. The Catacombs of St. Domitilla derive their name from Domitilla, a Christian woman interred within a mausoleum on the catacombs' premises; subsequently, the catacombs were dedicated in her honor. Some of the saints originally laid to rest in these catacombs were subsequently relocated. For instance, St. Cecilia initially found her resting place in St. Callixtus, but her remains were later transferred to a cathedral in Trastevere. Likewise, St. Sebastian, St. Peter, and St. Paul, initially buried within the Catacombs of Sebastian, are no longer present at that location.
For more info read: Facts About The Catacombs
Know Before You Go
- Roman Catacombs allow visitors as a part of a guided trip tour and not individually due to the fragile environment of the location.
The Catacombs Rome gets chilly even in summer and hence do not forget to carry warm clothes like sweaters and jackets. Wear comfortable shoes like sneakers or boots as the pathway is narrow and jagged.
Since the Catacomb Roma is a revered place, it is necessary that visitors cover their shoulders and thighs while visiting the crypts.
Individuals suffering from claustrophobia should refrain from entering the Catacombs.
Visitors with limited mobility are not allowed to enter as the site is not wheelchair accessible. You are not allowed to bring baby strollers also inside the Catacombs.
Most Roman Catacombs are located on the Appian Way which is close to the centre of the city.
- By Bus: Board a bus on lines 118 and 218 to reach Catacombs of Saint Callixtus while lines 118, 218 and subway line 660 take you to Catacombs of San Sebastiano and bus line 714 stops at Catacombs of Domitilla.
- By Taxi: You can reach the Catacombs of Rome in 10 minutes by a taxi from the centre of the city.
- By cycle: Hire a bike at the information point near Via Appia Antica 58 and cycle to reach the Catacombs.
You can also book: Catacombs & Crypts Tour with Roman Aqueducts
FAQs
Are the Roman catacombs worth seeing?
The Roman Catacombs are worth the visit as they are a gateway to explore the hidden history of Rome buried beneath the grounds of the city. They depict the historical tale about illegal religion, underground worship and burials. The Catacombs are also an art gallery where you can witness significant Christian artworks.
How many are buried in Roman catacombs?
Hundreds of thousands of Roman Christians, Jews and also people who adhered to other pagan Roman religions are buried in the Catacombs of Rome.
Are Rome Catacombs open?
There are more than 60 Rome Catacombs out of which only five are open and accessible by the public. These catacombs are managed by the organisations and offer guided tours for the visitors.
Are the catacombs cold?
Yes the Catacombs are cold throughout the year due to the underground nature of the site. The temperature in the basement of the Catacombs is constantly 16oC even in summer.
Who is buried in the Catacombs of Rome?
First Christians of Rome, Jewish people and pagan citizens are buried in the Catacombs of Rome. Some people who were buried here are identified as saints and martyrs but majority of the burials are ordinary Christians of Rome.
Which catacombs are best to visit in Rome?
The most enthralling catacombs to visit in Rome are Catacombe di San Callisto, Catacombe di Priscilla, Catacombe di San Sebastiano, Catacombe di Domitilla and The Vatican Necropolis.
Also Checkout - Vatican City Facts
When is the best time to visit Rome?
The best time to visit Rome is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
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