Explore the Sacred Burial Grounds of the Catacombs of Commodilla

Shrine of SS Felix and Adauctus

The large shrine-crypt was created by expanding the original quarry spine passage. It features two arcosolia (arched burial recesses) and two round-headed apsidal niches, potentially once housing statuary. The crypt was adorned with frescoes, although many have deteriorated over time. Notable surviving works include a fresco of the two saints in the main arcosolium tomb, depicting Felix and Adauctus, and a 6th-century fresco in the second arcosolium showing Christ giving the keys to St. Peter. Another prominent fresco depicts Madonna and Child with Felix, Adauctus, and Turtura.

Epitaph of Pope Damasus

The Epitaph of Pope Damasus, though only partially preserved, provides valuable insight into the veneration of Saints Felix and Adauctus. The epitaph honors their unwavering faith and courageous martyrdom. It recounts how Felix, whose name means "happy," embraced his faith and rejected worldly power, while Adauctus, meaning "consecrated for sacrifice," triumphantly ascended to heaven. The epitaph also acknowledges Pope Damasus, who commissioned the construction and decoration of the saints' tomb. This epitaph likely influenced the creation of the fictional legends surrounding the saints, including the account of Adauctus volunteering to join Felix in martyrdom.

Early Italian Graffito

An intriguing feature found within the Catacombs of Commodilla is an early Italian graffito. This scratched inscription, believed to date back to the 9th century, is an interesting linguistic artifact. It reads: "Non dicere ille secrita a bboce."

While the exact interpretation is subject to debate, the inscription can be roughly translated as: "Don't speak secret things aloud there."

This graffito is considered one of the earliest examples of proto-Italian or early Italian language, offering a glimpse into the linguistic development and cultural practices of the time.

St. Emerita's Tomb

Uncover the tomb of St. Emerita, located down the wide spine-passage away from the main shrine-crypt. This unique tomb, described as "like an oven," stands out with its longitudinal excavation into the wall. While the origins of this tomb are still under debate, it adds an intriguing element to the catacombs and invites exploration and contemplation.

The Cubiculum of Leo

A prestigious communal chamber with its own separate entrance, the Cubiculum of Leo dates from the late 4th century or shortly after. The relatively small space boasts three arcosolia and is completely adorned with exquisite frescoes painted in costly scarlet cinnabar. The walls depict scenes from the New Testament and the life of St. Pau. The most significant artwork is found on the curved roof; a remarkable fresco panel showcasing Christ as a majestic, bearded figure known as the Pantocrator. This depiction marks the earliest example of this iconic motif, which later became widespread in sacred art.

Tomb of St. Merita

Boldetti, an Italian archaeologist and scholar, who played a significant role in the exploration and study of the Catacombs of Commodilla claimed that the shrine-tomb of St. Emerita, a virgin martyr,  can be found in the wide spine-passage, separate from the main shrine-crypt. Boldetti arrived at this conclusion by noting the presence of a fresco depicting a young woman on the tympanum of an arcosolium in that area, as well as the high number of graves surrounding it, implying its popularity among the faithful. While these pieces of evidence are not definitive or conclusive, no other potential location for St. Emerita's shrine has been discovered thus far, making this site a significant possibility.