Catacombs of Rome
Explore the Catacombs of Rome
🕯️ Catacombs Tour
Step below the streets of Rome and explore one of the city's most fascinating underground historical sites with a guided visit.
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Catacombs of Rome
The Catacombs of Rome are former passageways that served as burial grounds for Jewish, pagan, and Roman citizens from the 2nd century to the 5th century. Built as a solution for the lack of burial space of early Christians, the Catacombs consisted of multiple underground passageways that extended for several kilometers. Niches are then dug that are scattered throughout the area. The corpses were wrapped in a sheet and covered with marble and clay gravestones. The hidden burial grounds were a way for closeted Christians to bury their dead with Christian symbols since it was a time of Christian persecution. Even during the end of the persecutions, the catacombs remained to be used for burials.
There are over sixty catacombs with only five open to the public. These are the Catacombs of San Sebastiano, San Callisto, Priscilla, Domitilla, and Sant’Agnese. The five sites have varying opening and closing times, so it’s best to book a tour in advance.
Visiting the Catacombs of Rome
Rome has several ancient catacombs open to visitors, including San Callisto, San Sebastiano, Priscilla, Domitilla and Sant’Agnese. Most are located outside the historic centre and are best reached by bus, taxi or guided tour. Opening hours vary, and some sites close on specific days, so booking in advance is recommended.
Best Catacombs of Rome tours
FAQ - Catacombes of Rome
The main catacombs open to visitors are located outside Rome’s historic centre, mainly along the ancient roads Via Appia Antica and Via Ardeatina.
Popular catacombs open to visitors include San Callisto, San Sebastiano, Domitilla, Priscilla and Sant’Agnese.
Rome has more than 60 known catacomb complexes, although only a small number are normally open to visitors.
Yes. Visitors generally need an admission ticket, and guided visits are common because access to the underground passages is controlled.
A typical guided visit lasts around 30–60 minutes, depending on the catacomb and tour.