Catacombs of Generosa

Rome, Italy

The Catacomb of Generosa is part of an archeological complex, rich of remains not just Christian, but also pagan. The catacomb is situated inside a hill and occupies a single level. The former entrance of the catacomb, just like other Roman catacombs, was inside a basilica, built under Pope Damasus I in the second half of 4th century, whose remains have been discovered by Giovanni Battista de Rossi in the 19th century. In the apse a fenestella confessionis (little window for confession) allowed to see the main place of worship, while a side door gave access to the catacomb.

According to the tradition, the catacomb first served as burial place for martyrs Simplicius and Faustinus, killed in 303 under Diocletian. The hypogeum graveyard served mainly for the entombment of the farmers of the surroundings and therefore it shows a sober and poor style. Near 382 Pope Damasus built the semi-hypogeum basilica and the catacomb ceased being a graveyard and became a place of worship of the martyrs there buried. In 682 Pope Leo II moved the relics of the martyrs of Generosa in the church of Santa Bibiana on the Esquiline Hill: the catacomb was thereby gradually abandoned and its location was forgotten.

The discovery, in the 19th century, of marble inscriptions inspired the interest of the archaeologist Giovanni de Rossi, who in 1868 discovered the remains of the basilica and soon after the Catacomb of Generosa. The catacomb was restored in the 1930s by Enrico Josi. Further archaeological campaigns were carried out between 1980 and 1986.

The most important place of all the catacomb is the martyrs crypt, at the back of the apse of the external basilica. It hosted a fresco with Byzantine features, called Coronatio Martyrum, dating back to 6th century. It portrays five figures: the central one is Christ, handing out the crown of martyrdom to Simplicius, with Beatrix at his side; on the left of Christ are Faustinus, bearing the palm of martyrdom in his hand, and Rufinianus. The fresco was seriously damaged when Giovanni Battista de Rossi, in the 19th century, attempted to tear it off.

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Details

Founded: 4th century AD
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Italy

Rating

3.9/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Roberto Cecchini (3 months ago)
It reminded me a little of the catacombs of Commodilla but more is needed... On a hill not far from the Israeli hospital (you have to turn right and walk about 600 metres) on the street of the same name you arrive at a small well-kept park - difficult find parking, arm yourself with patience - but not accessible (once a month) owned by the Capitoline superintendency but managed by the good volunteers of the Generosa Committee (which takes care of this site, the church of Santa Passera and the Magliana Castle). The place, on the top of which a cross culminates, stands out for being simple and bare and still has much to investigate. These are semi-underground catacombs (you go down a few steps) on a single level, not particularly precious, which house many niches that are still closed, some marble epigraphs and many bones. Of particular value is an arcosolium with the remains of frescoes especially on the sides and a fresco with the remains (restored but very deteriorated) depicting the three martyr brothers who were buried here (Generosa is called the Roman matron who donated the land for the burials). On the surface there are few remains of what was the basilica built on the cemetery before the relics were transferred and the place abandoned. With due valorization by the Municipality it would be of greater interest and we hope that the funds received will serve to make these cultural resources of the neighborhood (twinned with Fulda, a city built around the relics of the saints once buried here) usable. Useful info? Leave a like and look at my other reviews about Rome and beyond.
Simone Masala (12 months ago)
The visit to the Basilica and the Catacombs of Generosa proves to be an unforgettable experience, which allows you to immerse yourself in the primitive Christian history of Rome and discover one of its lesser-known but full of charm and meaning sites. Located on the banks of the Tiber River, in the Portuense district, this archaeological complex offers a unique exploration of the earliest evidence of the Christian faith and the cult of martyrs. Historical and Religious Context The Catacombs of Generosa are linked to the memory of the martyrs Simplicio, Faustino and Viatrice, whose history is shrouded in the devotion and mystery of the Christian persecutions of the 3rd and 4th centuries. The Basilica, built over the catacombs over time, serves as a memorial to these martyrs and as a place of worship for the Christian community. During the visit, it was highlighted how the site is an important witness to the early stages of Christianity in Rome and the transition from persecution to peace in the Church. The Experience of the Visit Entering the Catacombs of Generosa means embarking on a journey into the past, through narrow corridors dug into the rock that lead to small funerary chambers, where Christians buried their dead with respect and hope in the resurrection. The guide was able to vividly illustrate the lives of these first Christians, their cult and the profound meaning of their burial practices. The visit to the basilica, with its archaeological remains and artistic finds, adds a further level of understanding and appreciation. The frescoes, though eroded by time, tell stories of faith and martyrdom, visually connecting visitors with the traditions and beliefs of those who came before them. General Impressions and Reflections What is most striking about the visit to the Basilica and the Catacombs of Generosa is the sensation of historical and spiritual continuity that is perceived. Despite the distances in time, the message of faith, hope and resilience transmitted by this site still resonates today with surprising power. The guide emphasized how, through the memory of the martyrs and the beauty of their stories, we can find inspiration and comfort. Final Considerations The visit to the Basilica and the Catacombs of Generosa offers an experience rich in history, art and spirituality. It is an invitation to reflect on the roots of Christianity and the strength of the faith that sustained the first Christians through persecution. In a frenetic and often superficial world, the discovery of this sacred place offers a moment of pause and deep connection with the past, inviting visitors to meditate on the meaning of faith and sacrifice. A site, therefore, of great cultural and spiritual value that deserves to be known and appreciated.
Anna I. (2 years ago)
Small Christian catacombs in a countryside area, we are at the 6th mile of the Via Campana, an ancient road connecting Rome and Ostia to transport salt. The catacombs are small but very interesting and the visit managed by the "generous catacombs" association, although a little long in the explanations, is a real and very interesting history lesson
Sergio di fruscia (2 years ago)
Ok
Roberto Cecchini (3 years ago)
It reminded me a little of the catacombs of Commodilla but more is needed... On a hill not far from the Israeli hospital (you have to turn right and walk about 600 metres) on the street of the same name you arrive at a small well-kept park - difficult find parking, arm yourself with patience - but not accessible (once a month) owned by the Capitoline superintendence but managed by the good volunteers of the Generosa committee. The place, on the top of which a cross culminates, stands out for being simple and bare and still has much to investigate. These are semi-pogean catacombs (you go down a few steps) on a single level, not pathetically precious, which house many niches still closed, some marble epigraphs and many bones. Of particular value is an arcosolium with the remains of frescoes especially on the sides and a fresco with the remains (restored but very deteriorated) depicting the three martyr brothers who were buried here (Generous is called the brown woman who donated the land for the burials). On the surface there are few remains of what was the basilica built on the cemetery before the relics were transferred and the place abandoned. With due valorization by the municipality it would be of greater interest and we hope that the funds received will serve to make these cultural resources of the neighborhood (twinned with Fulda, a city built around the relics of the saints once buried here) usable. Look at the photos and videos I have posted and the other reviews I have done on Rome and its wonders and if I have been useful click on useful and if you want follow me
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