Catacombs of Rome
AbrahamicChristiancaveMediterranean150 CE - 400 CE
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Location
Modern Name
Catacombe di Roma
Country
Italy
Region
Mediterranean
Coordinates
41.8580, 12.5140
Era
150 CE - 400 CE
Site Type
Cave
About
Vast underground burial networks beneath Rome where early Christians buried their dead and gathered for worship during periods of persecution.
Significance
The catacombs are the world's most important early Christian archaeological site, preserving 2nd-4th century frescoes, inscriptions, and evidence of Christian funerary theology.
History & Historical Arc
Built from the 2nd through 4th centuries CE; contain the remains of popes and martyrs; used as pilgrimage sites in the m…
Archaeological Notes
Over 60 catacombs with more than 500km of tunnels; the Catacomb of Priscilla contains the earliest known image of the Vi…
Key Features & Structures
- Catacomb of Callixtus (papal crypt)
- Catacomb of Priscilla (Virgin Mary fresco)
Visitor Information
Several catacombs open to public with guided tours only; entry fee; Appian Way setting; closed Wednesdays (Callixtus); b…
Related Figures
Pope Callixtus ISaints Peter and PaulSaint Cecilia
In the Bible
Bible Places
This location appears in the Bible as Rome
View verse references, maps, and biblical history →
Source References
- Romans 16:1-16