Catacomb of St. Callixtus and Appian Way Guided Tour
Appio-Latino, Rome
Get outside the walls of Rome and into the ancient tunnels of its catacombs. Enjoy a 3-hour tour that gives you a unique perspective on ancient Rome that you won't experience in the city center.
This 3-hour guided tour explores Rome’s ancient catacombs, the Appian Way, and Roman aqueducts, ideal for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Explore ancient catacombs, including the Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- View the exterior of the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella
- Walk part of the old Appian Way and see ancient Roman aqueducts
- See some of the earliest examples of Christian art
Description
This 3-hour tour combines bus and walking routes beyond Rome’s city walls, taking you through the ancient tunnels of the city’s catacombs. You will travel along the rustic Appian Way and pass under arches of ancient aqueducts.
The catacombs, constructed nearly 2,000 years ago as burial chambers for early Christians, contain burial niches, mosaics, sarcophagi, and ancient religious drawings. At the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, explore the Crypt of the Popes and view some of the earliest Christian art.
As Christianity grew in Rome, a burial system was needed for many people who could not afford elaborate tombs. The solution was to carve burial complexes into the friable tufa rock surrounding the city. From the 2nd to the 5th century, 60 catacomb complexes were created, with two designated for Jewish burials. Of these, five Christian catacombs are regularly open to the public, offering a perspective on Ancient Rome not available within the city center.
Includes
- Transport from and to the meeting point
- 3-hour guided tour
- Guided visit to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Entrance and booking fees
- Headsets for ease of hearing the guide
Excludes
- Lunch
- Hotel pickup
Important Information
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible.
- Not recommended for those with severe claustrophobia.
- Photography is not allowed inside the catacombs.
- Proper dress is required to enter places of worship: no shorts or sleeveless tops for men or women; women must cover shoulders and wear skirts or trousers below the knee.
- This tour requires a minimum of 5 participants and may be rescheduled or cancelled with a full refund if the minimum is not met; you will be informed in advance.
Easy Cancellation
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for religious sites. Morning tours offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
