Yes, you can visit the catacombs in Rome! In fact, the catacombs are one of the city’s most fascinating, historical, and eerie sites, offering a glimpse into the early Christian community and ancient burial practices. Some of the most popular catacombs open to visitors include San Callisto, San Sebastiano, Domitilla, and Priscilla, each offering guided tours to showcase ancient frescoes, crypts, and burial chambers.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Rome’s catacombs, including tips, sites, and the best ways to experience them.
What Are the Catacombs of Rome?
The catacombs are underground burial sites, mainly used by early Christians and Jews, dating back to the 2nd to 5th centuries AD. Due to land shortages and persecution, Christians began to bury their dead in these subterranean tunnels outside the city walls.
There are over 60 known catacombs beneath Rome, extending for hundreds of kilometers, though only a few are open to the public. These catacombs are one of Rome’s most notable attractions.
Key Features of the Catacombs:
- Subterranean tunnels: These extensive networks span several levels underground, with narrow passageways lined with niches where the dead were placed.
- Burial chambers: Larger chambers were used for prominent families or groups.
- Frescoes and inscriptions: Many catacombs contain early Christian art, including frescoes of biblical scenes, symbols like the fish (Ichthys), and inscriptions written in Latin or Greek.
Which Catacombs Can You Visit in Rome?
Several catacombs are open to visitors, and each offers a unique insight into early Christian history. Here are some of the most notable ones you can explore:
1. Catacombs of San Callisto (St. Callixtus)
Location: Via Appia Antica, 126
Opening Hours: Thursday to Tuesday from 9 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm
Notable Features: The Crypt of the Popes, the Crypt of St. Cecilia (patron saint of music), and numerous frescoes.
One of the most famous and largest catacombs, it served as the official cemetery for the Church of Rome, containing the graves of many early martyrs and 16 popes. It’s known for its crypts and impressive frescoes, with the Crypt of the Popes and the Crypt of St. Cecilia being particularly noteworthy.
2. Catacombs of San Sebastiano
Location: Via Appia Antica, 136
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm
Notable Features: Underground burial galleries and a basilica built above them, housing some early Christian relics.
Named after St. Sebastian, an early Christian martyr buried here, these catacombs are smaller but still impressive. They offer a serene and somewhat less crowded experience with burial galleries and the basilica above housing relics of early Christian martyrs.
3. Catacombs of Domitilla
Location: Via delle Sette Chiese, 280
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday from 9 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm
Notable Features: Frescoes, the underground basilica, and over 17 kilometers of burial chambers.
The oldest and one of the most extensive catacombs, containing over 17 kilometers of passageways. Unique for its underground basilica and well-preserved frescoes, the Catacombs of Domitilla offer a deeper insight into both early Christian and Roman funerary traditions.
4. Catacombs of Priscilla
Location: Via Salaria, 430
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm
Notable Features: The famous fresco of the Madonna and Child (one of the earliest depictions of Mary) and other religious art.
Known as the “Queen of the Catacombs,” it’s renowned for its beautiful frescoes, including one of the earliest known depictions of the Madonna and Child. It served as a burial place for many early Christian martyrs and is a must-see for those interested in ancient Christian art.
5. Catacombs of Sant’Agnese
Location: Via di Sant’Agnese, 1
Opening Hours: From 9 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 6 pm, except Sunday mornings and Monday afternoons
Notable Features: Burial niches, frescoes, the nearby Basilica of St. Agnes, and the Mausoleum of Santa Costanza.
Located near the Basilica of St. Agnes, these catacombs are named after the martyr St. Agnes, a young Christian girl. Less crowded and peaceful, these catacombs offer a more intimate experience, featuring burial niches and beautiful frescoes, as well as the nearby Mausoleum of Santa Costanza.
How to Visit the Catacombs in Rome
If you want to explore all of these catacombs, you should spend three days at least in Rome. The catacombs are easy to visit, but you should know a few things in advance.
Tickets and Tours
Most of the catacombs have an entrance fee. Prices generally range from $9-$13 (€8-€12), depending on the site. Children, students, and seniors may get discounts.
Many of the catacombs require visitors to join a guided tour, usually lasting about 30–45 minutes. Tours are available in multiple languages and provide detailed insights into the history and significance of the site.
Booking: While it’s possible to buy tickets at the entrance, it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during the busy tourist season.
Timing
Most catacombs are open daily, except on certain holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Opening hours typically vary between summer and winter, so it’s a good idea to check ahead if you’re visiting during the off-season. Also, check the weather by month to visit Rome’s catacombs.
- Off-Season (Late Fall to Early Spring): Fewer crowds, making for a quieter and more immersive experience.
- Weekdays: Visiting on a weekday tends to be less crowded than weekends.
- Morning Hours: Early morning tours often provide the best opportunity to explore without large crowds.
How to Get There
Rome’s catacombs are located outside the city center, mainly along the Via Appia Antica. The easiest way to reach them is by bus or metro, combined with a short bus ride, or walk.
- For the Catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano, take bus 218 from the San Giovanni Metro station.
- For the Catacombs of Domitilla, take bus 716 or 30 from the center.
Some visitors choose to explore the Via Appia Antica by bike. This ancient road is scenic and offers an immersive experience as you visit various historical sites, including the catacombs.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Visiting the catacombs is a unique and solemn experience. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Temperature: The catacombs are cool, even in summer, with temperatures around 15°C (59°F). Bring a light jacket or sweater.
- Photography: Most catacombs do not allow photography inside, so be prepared to keep your camera or phone away.
- Dress Code: As with many religious sites in Rome, modest clothing is expected. This means covering your shoulders and knees, especially if the catacombs are near or part of a church.
- Accessibility: The catacombs are ancient and often have narrow passageways and uneven ground, making them difficult for those with mobility issues. Check with the specific catacomb in advance if you need special accommodations.
Other Nearby Attractions
The catacombs are located along the Via Appia Antica, one of Rome’s oldest and most historic roads. If you’re visiting the catacombs, consider exploring these nearby attractions:
- Via Appia Antica: Also known as the Appian Way, this ancient road is lined with ruins, tombs, and monuments. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
- The Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella: A massive and impressive tomb located along the Appian Way, close to the catacombs.
- The Aqueduct Park (Parco degli Acquedotti): A beautiful park featuring remnants of ancient Roman aqueducts.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the catacombs in Rome offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the ancient city’s hidden underground history. Whether you’re intrigued by early Christian art and historical burial sites, or simply want to explore something beyond the usual Roman tourist spots, the catacombs deliver a uniquely eerie yet educational experience.
As you plan your visit, make sure to book your tickets in advance, consider a guided tour, and explore the surrounding treasures of Via Appia Antica. A trip to the Catacombs is not just a visit—it’s an unforgettable journey into the depths of Rome’s past!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you visit catacombs in Rome without a tour?
No, most catacombs in Rome require a guided tour for safety and informational purposes.
Is it worth visiting the catacombs in Rome?
Yes, the catacombs offer a unique and fascinating look into early Christian history and ancient burial practices.
Can you visit the catacombs in the Vatican?
No, the Vatican does not have public access to catacombs, but you can visit the Vatican Necropolis, which is beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.
Can you visit the catacombs on your own?
No, you cannot explore the catacombs alone; you must join a guided group.
Which Catacomb in Rome is best?
The Catacombs of San Callisto are considered the most famous and historically significant.
