Catacombs of Rome

travel wonder in Italy

Why the
Catacombs of Rome
is special

These are sprawling underground labyrinth of corridors with tomb niches carved out of the rock walls. The passageways are long and multi-leveled and were created in the 2nd to early 5th centuries. Preserved decorations include religious frescoes, symbols and inscriptions.

Insights on the

Catacombs of Rome

They were constructed just outside of Rome because the city prohibited open-air cemeteries.

Over 60 are known. St. Callixtus is the most popular for visitors.

Christians and Jews used catacombs because they were poor - and they  believed that the body should be in tack for resurrection. (Cremation was the preferred funeral method among the Pagan Romans).

Some movies tell us that the persecuted Christians used the catacombs to hide from the Roman authorities. That's myth. Why hide there? The authorities were well aware of the catacomb locations and layouts.

In the Middle Ages, the catacombs were neglected and abandoned. People soon forgot they existed. They were not discovered until the 17th century.

Catacombs are not unique to Rome. They were built elsewhere in Italy, as well in distant lands.

When to go

to Rome

Read my at-a-glance charts with tips & insights on Rome's:

View my other gold,

silver & bronze medal

winners in Italy

My Italian

phrase guide

for travelers

What every visitor should know.

Italian cuisine guide

Vatican City

Note: Its wonders are not listed in my Italy Guide. Even though the Vatican lies within Rome, it is not part of it or Italy. It's an independent nation. Click to see its gold, silver and bronze medals,

I hope your Italy travel dreams come true - and that 

my Catacombs of Rome page helps you enjoy your vacation, tour or trip

©2008 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications