Catacombs of Domitilla, Rome, Italy

Close to the Catacombs of San Callisto are the large and impressive Catacombs of Domitilla (named after Saint Domitilla), spread over 15 kilometres of underground caves.

The Domitilla Catacombs are unique in that they are the oldest of Rome's underground burial networks, and the only ones to still contain bones. They are also the best preserved and one of the most extensive of all the catacombs. Included in their passages are a 2nd-century fresco of the Last Supper and other valuable artifacts. There are almost 150,000 bodies buried in the Catacombs of St. Domitilla.

They are the only catacombs that have a subterranean basilica; entrance to the catacombs is achieved through this sunken 4th-century church, at via delle Sette Chiese 282. In the past, the basilica had become unsafe, and was abandoned in the 9th century. It was rediscovered in 1593, and much of it was reconstructed in 1872.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Christopher Gorrie (3 years ago)
I had an incredible experience at the Catacombs of Domitilla. I highly suggest taking a guided tour. My guide gave us great contextual information and helped me understand the history of Christianity in Rome and the birth and existence of the catacombs. Of course there is the incredible highlight of this particular series of catacombs — the painting St. Peter and St. Paul, which is the oldest fresco image of them in the world. It’s amazing that it is left exposed — in other countries something like this might be under bulletproof glass. The entrance to this site is slightly out of the way, so be sure you prepare to get there. Taking a taxi or bus is probably easiest. You can also get here by electric scooter or bicycle, though it’s slightly risky. Walking might take quite a while. Hydrate and use the bathroom before going under!

Prince Ruby (3 years ago)
My first real guided tour through catacombs of any kind and I was impressed by the knowledgeable guide and the preservation of the pieces.

Amanda Harper (3 years ago)
Really fun! One of our favorite things we did on the trip. Was nice and cool down there as well, so was a nice way to beat the heat.

sherri aragon (3 years ago)
It was very informative my tour guide John was incredibly knowledgeable we went to a chruch I loved it and beautiful

Josiah Brunette (5 years ago)
Excellent and very knowledgeable tour guide. Few things to be prepared for the catacombs are a bit brisk, a light jacket is recommended. The catacombs are dark, rocky, small, and narrow. So watch your step. Our tour guide did a very good job at looking out for our group and catering to the needs of the group. Enjoy!

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Photo from Flickr, copyright santiagolopezpastor

Historic Site of the week

Roman Theatre

The Roman Theatre of Mérida is a construction promoted by the consul Vipsanius Agrippa in the Roman city of Emerita Augusta, capital of Lusitania (current Mérida). It was constructed in the years 16 to 15 BCE. One of the most famous and visited landmarks in Spain, the Roman Theatre of Mérida is regarded as a Spanish cultural icon and was chosen as one of the 12 Treasures of Spain.

The theatre has undergone several renovations, notably at the end of the 1st century or early 2nd century CE (possibly during the reign of Emperor Trajan), when the current facade of the scaenae frons was erected, and another in the time of Constantine I (between 330 and 340), which introduced new decorative-architectural elements and a walkway around the monument. Following the theatre"s abandonment in Late Antiquity, it was slowly covered with earth, with only the upper tiers of seats (summa cavea) remaining visible.

Catacombs of Domitilla

Address

Details

More Information

Rating

Interesting Sites Nearby

User Reviews

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Finest Norman castles in Italy

Exploring the History of Northern Poland

Discovering Slovenia's Historic Wonders

Historic Site of the week

Roman Theatre