Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.

Step inside six bone-crafted chapels where faith, art, and mortality intertwine in hauntingly beautiful harmony.
Step inside six bone-crafted chapels where faith, art, and mortality intertwine in hauntingly beautiful harmony.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Underground cemeteries carved in volcanic rock between the 2nd and 5th centuries AD, these sacred spaces were used by early Christians and Jews to bury their dead and worship in secret. From popes’ crypts at St. Callixtus to the bone chapel of the Capuchin Crypt, each site offers something unique.
From frescoed tombs to walls of bones, journey through Rome’s buried secrets without the crowds or the commute.
From frescoed tombs to walls of bones, journey through Rome’s buried secrets without the crowds or the commute.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Visit Rome’s mysterious bone-adorned crypt beneath Church of Santa Maria della Concezione with audio commentary.
Visit Rome’s mysterious bone-adorned crypt beneath Church of Santa Maria della Concezione with audio commentary.
Inclusions
Exclusions
What to bring
What’s not allowed
Accessibility
Additional information
Step beneath Rome to uncover the final resting place of early popes and martyrs.
Step beneath Rome to uncover the final resting place of early popes and martyrs.
Inclusions
Exclusions
The best of Rome—attraction tickets, guided walks, and food tours—at your own pace.
The best of Rome—attraction tickets, guided walks, and food tours—at your own pace.
Inclusions
Access to:
Validity:

Guide: Yes
Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour (varies by location).
Skip-the-line access: Yes
Why go for it?
Recommended tours:

Guide: Yes
Duration: 2 - 3.5 hours
Skip-the-Line access: Yes
Why go for it?
Recommended tours:

Guide: Yes
Duration: 3 - 3.5 hours
Skip-the-Line access: Yes
Why go for it?:
Recommended tours
Rome’s underground isn’t just a maze of tunnels—it’s a glimpse into ancient life, beliefs, and burial customs. While the Christian catacombs are the most famous, the city also has Jewish catacombs, each with their own unique identity. Let’s break it down.

By the 2nd century AD, Christianity was still an underground movement—literally. Since Roman law restricted burials within city limits and early Christians couldn’t afford elaborate mausoleums, they dug deep, creating vast underground cemeteries outside the city walls.
But these weren’t just burial sites. During times of persecution, they doubled as secret places of worship, where Christians gathered to honor their dead and practice their faith. Walk through these dimly lit tunnels today, and you’ll find:
🔹 Famous Christian Catacombs: St. Callixtus, Domitilla, Priscilla, and St. Sebastian.
Explore ancient Christian hideaways
While Christianity was just beginning, Rome already had a thriving Jewish community—one of the oldest in the Western world. Dating from the 2nd to 4th century AD, Rome’s six Jewish catacombs offer a different, but equally fascinating, glimpse into history.
Unlike their Christian counterparts, these catacombs are free of biblical frescoes and saintly imagery—instead, they feature:
These catacombs are far less visited, making them a true hidden gem for history buffs.
🔹 Notable Jewish Catacombs: Villa Torlonia and Vigna Randanini.
Catacombs of St. Callixtus (Via Appia Antica, 110/126, 00179 Roma RM)
Catacombs of Domitilla (Via delle Sette Chiese, 282, 00147 Roma RM)
Catacombs of St. Sebastian (Via Appia Antica, 136, 00179 Roma RM)
Catacombs of Priscilla (Via Salaria, 430, 00199 Roma RM)
Catacombs of Sant'Agnese (Via Nomentana, 349, 00162 Roma RM)
Detailed directions to the Catacombs
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours:
The average time taken to reach the Christian Catacombs on the Appian Way by car from central Rome is 20 to 30 mins, covering a distance of approximately 7 km (4.5 miles).
Car parking

Closed on
Best time to visit: Early mornings or late evenings.
See complete Catacombs schedule

No, most catacombs require visitors to be accompanied by a guide to ensure proper preservation, safety, and to provide valuable information about the historical significance of the site.
Most catacombs have limited accessibility due to their underground nature and uneven terrain. It is recommended to check with the specific catacomb you plan to visit for accessibility information and available accommodations.
The Roman Catacombs are located in various areas around Rome, Italy. Some of the well-known catacombs are situated along the Appian Way, one of the oldest and most important Roman roads. The Catacombs of St. Callixtus, Domitilla, and St. Sebastian are located along or near this historic route. Other catacombs, such as the Catacombs of Priscilla and St. Agnese, are found in different parts of the city.
Photography policies may vary among catacombs. In general, flash photography is not permitted due to preservation concerns, but some sites may allow you to take non-flash photographs. It is best to check the specific rules at the catacombs you plan to visit.
Depending on the catacombs' locations and your available time, it is possible to visit multiple catacombs in one day. However, consider travel times between sites and ensure you have ample time to fully explore each catacomb. This tour involves a guided pilgrimage to two catacombs, two papal basilicas, and the Holy Steps! First visit Sancta Sanctorum and its famous staircase, followed by St. John Lateran archbasilica and St. Mary Major basilica. It doesn't end there – onward to the catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian! All with a historian in your chosen language.
To respect the sacred nature of the catacombs, it is recommended to dress modestly and appropriately, with shoulders and knees covered. Some catacombs may have specific dress code requirements, so it's best to check before your visit.
The cost of Roman Catacombs tours can vary depending on the specific tour, package, or combination of attractions included. On average, ticket prices for guided tours of the catacombs range from approximately €12 to €79 per person. However, prices may fluctuate based on factors such as the duration of the tour, the inclusion of additional attractions, and any special features or services provided. It is advisable to check our curated selection of experiences for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information for the specific tour or package you are interested in.
Highlights of the Roman Catacombs tour include exploring the ancient Christian burial grounds, viewing the intricate frescoes depicting biblical scenes, as well as understanding the historical significance as sacred sites, symbolism in artwork, ancient inscriptions, impressive architecture, and its connection to Rome's cultural and religious heritage.
Consider this combo tour that takes you into one of the Christian Catacombs, the San Nicola Basilica, and the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars. The Capuchin Crypt cannot be explored with a guide. You will instead be provided an audio guide along with your tickets. Tune in and learn all about its underground chapels lined with skeletal art!