Rome: Catacombs of St. Sebastian Entry Ticket & Guided Tour

Appio-Latino, Rome



Explore the fascinating third-century Catacombs of Saint Sebastian on a guided walking tour. Witness the burial locations of saints, popes, and emperors.

The Catacombs of San Sebastiano in Rome offer a guided underground tour suitable for history and archaeology enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Catacombs of Rome
  • Guided tour
  • Rome underground

Description

The site of the Catacomb of San Sebastiano was originally a deep depression used as a pozzolana quarry, known as ad catacumbas ('near the cavities'), a term that became synonymous with underground cemeteries.

Since the first century, the underground galleries were repurposed for burial niches, while several columbaria and two residential complexes with notable wall paintings were constructed above ground.

In the mid-second century, the valley floor was raised to create a pitch, alongside which three mausoleums were built sequentially by Clodius Hermes, the Innocentiores, and the Ax.

Further elevation of the area made room for the triclia, a portico with a wall bearing numerous graffiti invocations to Saints Peter and Paul, venerated here around 250 AD.

Emperor Constantine (306–337) commissioned a basilica shaped like a Roman circus, known as 'circiforme,' at the site.

By the third century, the catacomb housing the tombs of martyrs Sebastian and Eutichio began to develop underground.

Includes

  • Entrance ticket
  • Guided tour in the chosen language

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket as the catacombs are cool year-round. Booking in advance is advised, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Catacombs of St. Sebastian are ancient underground burial sites located on the Appian Way in Rome, known for their early Christian tombs.
They are situated along the ancient Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) in Rome, an area historically used as a burial ground.
The guided tour is open to all visitors interested in Roman history and early Christian burial practices.
Tours typically last around 45 minutes to one hour; check the website for exact durations.
Visit during daylight hours to access the guided tours; check the official website for current opening times.
Photography policies vary; generally, photos without flash are allowed, but confirm on-site or via the tour provider.
Due to the underground nature and narrow passages, accessibility is limited; check ahead for specific accommodations.
While tickets may be available onsite, booking in advance online is recommended to guarantee entry.
The tour explores ancient burial niches, early Christian frescoes, and the structure of Rome’s early underground cemeteries.
They are among the earliest Christian burial sites and mark the area's evolution from a pozzolana quarry to a sacred cemetery.

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