An intricate maze of ancient catacombs with frescoes and underground churches.

Explore the catacombs and discover ancient Christian history.

4.6 Rating out of 5
3.757 Reviews on Google
15 € From a ticket
Photos
Antico affresco di due figure in piedi con colori sbiaditi, circondato da testi in latino, crepe visibili e una sezione di muro danneggiata.

Catacombe Domitilla

In short

What Catacombe di Domitilla is

The Catacombs of Domitilla are located on Via delle Sette Chiese in Rome, offering a fascinating exploration of the city's Christian past. This underground complex extends over 15 kilometers and includes a sunken church and 2nd-century frescoes depicting the Last Supper. The catacombs are named after the Domitilla family, who initially ordered their excavation, and they served as an important pilgrimage site throughout the Middle Ages.

Visitors can explore various underground levels, with access to the second oldest level. Although the catacombs have been emptied of human remains to prevent theft, the niches carved into the walls tell stories of ancient times, highlighting the physical size of people and the high infant mortality rate of that era.

The guided tour lasts about an hour and offers a unique perspective on the lives and beliefs of early Christians in Rome. During the tour, visitors can hear fascinating stories about the pagan and Christian use of the catacombs and the discoveries that have influenced the understanding of the role of women and the Virgin Mary in Church history.

The tickets

Tickets for Catacombe di Domitilla

How you visit

The visit

The visit to the Catacombs of Domitilla is a guided experience lasting about an hour. It is advisable to book in advance, as the ticket includes both entrance and the guided tour. During the visit, you will explore narrow corridors and underground chambers, so it is important to wear comfortable footwear and be mindful of uneven surfaces. Photography is forbidden inside the catacombs to preserve the site's integrity.

Despite the allure of the catacombs, they are not suitable for those suffering from claustrophobia or mobility issues, as the passages are narrow and lighting conditions are low. No human remains are visible, as the catacombs have been emptied to prevent further theft. However, the site offers a compelling insight into ancient Rome's history and the lives of early Christians.

The catacombs are not easily accessible by public transport, so private transportation may be necessary. Guided tours often include transportation, making access to the site easier.

When it opens

Opening hours

Monday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Sunday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 5:00 PM

Hours from the Google record, current as of publication.

The reviews

What visitors say

Visitors appreciate the wealth of information provided by the guides during the tour of the Catacombs of Domitilla. Many highlight the quality of the stories shared, which enrich the overall experience, and the opportunity to explore such an ancient and well-preserved site.

Some visitors emphasize the importance of wearing comfortable footwear due to the uneven surfaces and narrow passages. The visit is also seen as a chance to escape the heat and noise of Rome's more crowded tourist attractions.

The location

Where it is

Via delle Sette Chiese, 282, 00147 Roma RM

Around here

What's nearby

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Getting around

Photos by Ristorante Elisia | Adoro Hotel, Faber Cucchetti, Volta Romana Pizzeria, Luce Experience | Cocktail Bar e Ristorante Roma, Bompiani Trattoria Pizzeria, Tuarua, Pietro Scerrato, AJ, Federico Calcagnini, Laura, Cristiana Narducci, via Google.

Questions

Questions about visiting

Is photography allowed inside the catacombs?

No, photography is forbidden inside to preserve the site.

How long does the guided tour last?

The guided tour lasts about an hour.

How can the catacombs be reached?

The catacombs are not near a metro station, so private transportation may be necessary.

Nearby

Other places in Roma