Catacombs of San Callisto
The Catacombs of San Callisto are among the largest and most important early Christian burial complexes in Rome, developed from the 2nd century AD as an official cemetery of the early Church and eventual burial site for several popes and martyrs. The tunnels stretch for many kilometers across multiple underground levels.
Guided tours, required for all visitors, lead through a fraction of the full network, past papal crypts, martyrs' tombs, and faded early Christian frescoes, with commentary on the burial customs and symbolism of the early Church.
Being along the Appian Way, it's naturally paired with a walk or bike ride along the historic Roman road itself, one of the oldest and most significant roads of the ancient world.
Catacombs of San Callisto FAQs
No, guided tours are required for all visitors, partly for safety given the extent of the underground tunnels.
San Callisto is among the largest and most historically significant, with a papal crypt holding tombs of several early popes.
About 45 minutes to an hour.
Yes, it sits directly along the Via Appia Antica, making it easy to combine with a walk along the historic road.
Yes, typically closed on Wednesdays.
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