Rome - Catacombs on the Via Appia

Written on 09/27/2023
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"A Rare Opportunity to View the Catacombs" - EWTN 



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About these Sites

The Catacombs are where early Christians used to bury their dead prior to the legalization of the Faith in 313 AD. The site featured in this video are the Domitilla Catacombs, but some others are also currently open to the public. In this video, Andreas Thonhauser offers insight into what you'll find while making a mysterious journey into the Roman and Christian underground. 

Locations to Visit

  1. Domitilla Catacombs

  2. Catacombs of St. Callixtus

  3. Catacombs of San Sebastiano

  4. Catacombs of St. Priscilla



Domitilla Catacombs

Martyrs and Mosaics: Rome's Largest Underground Cemetery

The Domitilla Catacomb, one of Rome's oldest and largest underground cemeteries, dates back to 120 A.D. and belonged to Flavia Domitilla.

This site uniquely features an underground basilica dedicated to martyrs Nereo, Achilleo, and Saint Petronilla, St. Peter's daughter. The Divine Word Missionaries oversee this sacred site.

The catacomb, developed between the 2nd and 3rd centuries, houses frescoes depicting early Christian faith, including the rare beheading of Achilleus and the Epiphany. Located along the ancient Via Ardeatina, it remains a vital historical and religious landmark.



Catacombs of St. Callixtus

St. Callixtus Catacombs: The Little Vatican Beneath Rome's Streets

Explore the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, Rome’s ancient 3rd-century Christian cemetery sprawling over 15 hectares underground. This vast network, known as the "Little Vatican," is the final resting place of sixteen popes, countless martyrs, and half a million early Christians.

Discover the hauntingly beautiful Crypt of St. Cecilia, famed for its frescoes and the saint’s preserved statue, and the Crypt of the Popes, where original Greek inscriptions mark the tombs of nine popes. Wander through monumental tunnels and ornate family tombs, revealing some of the earliest Christian art.



Catacombs of San Sebastiano

Constantine's Basilica and the Catacombs of St. Sebastian

The Catacombs of San Sebastiano, originally a pagan burial site, transformed into a Christian necropolis in the 2nd century, dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul. Renamed in the 4th century after Saint Sebastian, who was buried here after his martyrdom in 298 A.D.

Saint Sebastian, who survived an initial execution attempt, was eventually killed by Emperor Diocletian and buried here. Highlights include the cubicle of Jonah with its 4th-century frescoes, the crypt of San Sebastiano, and three pagan mausoleums later used by Christians. The site also features graffiti from early pilgrims and a grand basilica built by Emperor Constantine.



Catacombs of St. Priscilla

Earliest Depiction of the Virgin Mary: Saints in the Catacombs of Priscilla

The Catacombs of Priscilla, founded by the noblewoman Priscilla, are one of Rome's oldest and most significant burial sites. Home to 40,000 burials in 13 kilometers of tunnels, they include martyrs Felix, Philip, and their mother St. Felicitas. Numerous popes rest here, earning it the title "Queen of the Catacombs."

Notable features include the earliest depiction of the Virgin Mary and the rich frescoes in the Greek Chapel. Rediscovered in the 16th century, this site continues to fascinate with its historical and artistic treasures.