- Rome Catacombs
- Capuchin Crypt
- Appian Way
- Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
- Catacombs of Callixtus
- Catacombs of Saint Agnes
- Catacombs of Priscilla
- Catacombs of Commodilla
- Catacombs of Domitilla
- History
- Jewish Catacombs
- Christian Catacombs
- Colosseum Tickets
- Vatican Tickets
- Castel Sant Angelo Tickets
- St. Peter's Basilica Tickets
- Borghese Gallery Tickets
- Rome Pantheon Tickets
- Bioparco Rome Tickets
- Palazzo Barberini Tickets
- Musei Capitolini Tickets
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum Tickets
- Trevi Fountain Tours
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Book St. Callixtus Catacombs Tickets
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
Guided Tour of Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Delve into the Roman history and the grandeur of St. Callixtus Catacombs, Rome's largest underground marvel and cross it off your bucket list.
- Listen to your expert multilingual tour guide narrate stories about the religious significance of the centuries-old burial site.
- Discover the labyrinth of tunnels lined with tombs carved directly from the rock, fascinating iconography and unique frescoes.
Inclusions
- Entry to Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Expert multilingual tour guide
- Tip: Attend special events and ceremonies, hosted within the catacombs, if available on the day of your visit.
- The tour is available in English, Italian, French, Spanish, and German.
- Bags no larger than 40x30x20 cm are allowed. They must be carried on the front or held at your side.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, pram/stroller users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tour of Catacombs of Domitilla with Entry Ticket
- Discover Rome's Domitilla Catacombs, renowned for early Christian frescoes and tombs, on a 17-km underground tour with an expert guide.
- Learn the story behind Rome's partially underground basilica – it goes 30 meters down – honoring martyrs such as Nereus and Achilleus.
- Don't miss the intricately adorned chapels called cubicula showcasing Biblical frescoes, inscriptions, and burial niches.
- Explore how discoveries from the catacombs have sparked discussions on women's roles in the Church, and choose a tour language that suits your preference.
Inclusions
- 30-min guided tour of Catacombs of Domitilla
- English/Italian/Spanish/German-speaking guide
- Entry to Catacombs of Domitilla
- Tip: Keep an eye out for hidden passages or niches, as some may contain intriguing inscriptions or remnants of ancient ceremonies.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues.
- Note that the following are not allowed on this tour: photography and smoking.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Full-Day Combo: Crypts & Catacombs and Legends & Ghosts of Rome Tour
- Explore the more macabre side of Rome with this chilling full-day tour of the Catacombs of Domitilla, San Callisto, The Basilica of San Clemente and the Capuchin Crypt and Museum and much more!
- Led by an English-speaking guide, you will get to witness and imbibe the most important bits of Roman history as you make your way to the first stop, the Catacombs, followed by the Basilica of San Clemente.
- You will also venture out into the chilling Capuchin Crypt, or 'Bone Chapel', after which, you will be allowed some free time to either explore the area more or indulge in a delectable Italian meal.
- You will then resume your Roman expedition with a short but comprehensive storytelling tour at Rome's historic centre including Campo de Fiori, Tiber River and catch a glimpse of Castel Sant'Angelo.
- Note: Tours inside Capuchin Crypts will be with audio guides, instead of a guided tour as per the new rules imposed by the Capuchin Crypts.
Inclusions
- Expert, English-speaking guide
- Small groups of 22 people or less
- Tickets for the Catacombs of Rome, Basilica San Clemente and The Capuchin ‘Bone Chapel’
- All transfers in an air-conditioned coach (only for Crypts & Catacombs Tour)
- Guided storytelling tour of Rome’s historic center
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combo (Save 4%): Catacombs of St. Callixtus + St. John Lateran + Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets
- Experience 3 of Rome’s tourist attractions with this discounted combo ticket that offers a guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, a St. John Lateran ticket with an audio guide, and tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with escorted entrance.
- Join an experienced tour guide and uncover the long-held secrets of the St. Callixtus Catacombs and explore several tombs of the earliest popes.
- Embark on a self-guided tour of the 4th-century Basilica of St. John Lateran, the oldest basilica in the Western world, and experience it at your own pace.
- Listen to the audio guide in one of five available languages and get a keen insight into the history of the Cloister, Baptistery, Holy Stairs (Scala Santa), and Sancta Sanctorum chapel during your visit.
- Discover the astounding collection of 20,000 artworks in the Vatican Museums leisurely with an escorted entrance that will take you inside with priority access.
Inclusions
Guided Tour of Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Access to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Expert multilingual tour guide (English, Italian, French, Spanish, and German)
St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide
- Admission to the Lateran Complex: Basilica, Cloister, Baptistery, Holy Stairs, and Papal Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum
- Audio guide available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian
Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Escorted Entrance
- Escorted entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Exclusions
Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Escorted Entrance
- Tickets to St. Peter's Basilica
Guided Tour of Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Tip: People who are claustrophobic should avoid this experience due to its underground location.
- The tour is available in English, Italian, French, Spanish, and German languages.
- Luggage: The maximum size of backpacks or handbags brought should not exceed 40x30x20 cm dimensions. Plus, visitors must carry the luggage on the front or hold them by their side.
- The experience is not suitable for wheelchair users and pram/stroller users.
St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide
- Tip: Download an online map for free to easily navigate between the locations.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- This audio guide is available in English, Italian, Spanish, French, and German languages.
- Guide dogs are allowed inside the venue.
- Dress Code: The clothing of both men and women should cover their knees and shoulders and should not include hats/caps.
- Please note that certain sections or buildings included in this ticket may not be accessible for wheelchair users.
Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Escorted Entrance
- Tip: Do online research before visiting the museums and prepare a checklist of the artworks and rooms you absolutely want to visit.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- Guide dogs are allowed inside the venue.
- Visitors are strictly prohibited from using mobile phones or taking photographs inside the Sistine Chapel.
- Avoid dressing in sleeveless blouses, miniskirts, shorts, and hats in order to maintain decorum.
- Luggage and/or large baggage cannot be carried inside the venue. You can drop them off at the cloakroom service for free.
- Except for guide dogs, other pets and small animals are not permitted inside the museums.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Quick Facts about Catacombs of Callixtus
- Official Name: Catacombs of Callixtus
- Address: Via Appia Antica, 110/126, 00179 Roma RM, Italy
- Date of opening: Mid-2nd Century AD
- Timings: 9 AMto 5 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Declared in 1980
- Function: Burial place for early Christians, now a historical site and popular tourist attraction.
Why Visit the Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome?
- Historical significance: Dating back to the early 3rd century AD, these catacombs hold immense historical and religious significance as one of the resting places of early Christians, including numerous popes and martyrs.
- Unique underground journey: Discover an intricate network of tunnels, galleries, and chambers spread across multiple levels, as you traverse through the city’s underground.
- Remarkable architecture: Marvel at the grandiose underground architecture, with beautifully decorated crypts, frescoes, and intricate carvings that showcase the artistry and devotion of the time.
- Spiritual heritage: Gain insight into the early Christian practices and rituals.
- Intricate carvings and frescoes: Admire ancient frescoes that adorn the walls and detailed carvings that decorate the catacombs, including the fascinating symbols and rituals depicted in the Cubicula of the Sacraments.
Plan Your Visit to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus
St. Callixtus Opening Hours
Timings: Thursday to Tuesday, 9 AM to 12 noon, 2 PM to 5 PM
Closed: Wednesdays, 1 January, Easter, 25 December
Best time to visit: The best time to visit is during the early morning hours when it is less crowded.
Detailed Timings of Catacombs of Callixtus
Catacombs of St. Callixtus Location
Address: Via Appia Antica, 110/126, 00179 Rome, Italy.
The Catacombs of Saint Callixtus are located on the right of Appian Way and after the Church of Domine Quo Vadis.
Getting to Catacombs of CallixtusHighlights of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus
Cubicules of the Sacraments
A series of five small chambers located within the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, they are often referred to as family tombs and hold significant importance due to their well-preserved frescoes. Dating back to the beginning of the 3rd century, the frescoes depict the sacraments of Baptism and the Eucharist. Additionally, the frescoes feature the depiction of the prophet Jonah, serving as a symbol of resurrection.
Crypt of the Popes
Often referred to as "the little Vatican," this crypt is the official burial site for nine popes and potentially eight influential figures from Rome's 3rd century Church. Original Greek inscriptions on the walls display the names of five popes, including Pontianus, Antherus, Fabian, Lucius, and Eutichian. Four tombstones bear the title of "bishop," representing the Pope's role as head of the Church. Pope Sixtus II, a martyr persecuted by Emperor Valerian, rests on the front wall.
The Crypt of St. Cecilia
The burial place of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music who was martyred in the 3rd century, the crypt was a place of veneration for St. Cecilia for over five centuries until her relics were transferred to a basilica dedicated to her in 821. The crypt houses a replica of Stefano Maderno's renowned 1599 sculpture. Adorned with mosaics and paintings dating back to the early 9th century, the Crypt of St. Cecilia captivates with an ancient depiction of St. Cecilia in prayer.
The Area of Pope Melziades
The area, known as Pope Melziades, was excavated in the late 3rd century and is filled with cubicles and arcosolia. A passage connects the Crypt of the Popes to the Crypts of Lucina. Visitors can explore a gallery adorned with symbols, tombstones of Julian the Priest and Priest in Peace, a tombstone depicting a phoenix, and an arcosolium featuring the small tombstone of Irene. Nearby, the crypt of refrigerium served for prayer gatherings and annual commemorations of the dead, while the Cubicle of the four seasons symbolizes the continuity of life.
The Crypt of St. Gaius and St. Eusebius
The Crypt of St. Gaius, dating back to the end of the 3rd century, served as a gathering place for community assemblies. On the other hand, the Crypt of St. Eusebius, from the beginning of the 4th century, is the final resting place of Pope Eusebius. Pope St. Damasus honored him by placing an inscription in front of his tomb, commemorating the pope's and the Church's compassion towards the "lapsi," individuals who had renounced their Christian faith.
The Crypt of Lucina
One of the most ancient parts of the catacombs, dating back to the 2nd century, the Crypt of Lucina, is the burial site of Pope Cornelius. Pope Cornelius, recognized as a martyr, has a tomb with an original inscription and splendid paintings depicting figures in Byzantine style. The crypt also contains ancient burials with Roman frescoes, including images of the Good Shepherd, orantes, and a symbol of the Eucharist represented by two fish and a basket of loaves. It offers a glimpse into the rich history and religious significance of the catacombs.
The Western Area & Liberian Area:
Featuring impressive underground architecture, the West Region was built in the first half of the 4th century and houses crypts and tombs. Similarly, the Liberian Region, constructed in the second half of the 4th century, showcases its own magnificent underground structures It is named after Pope Liberius, who may have been buried in this area.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Catacomb of Callixtus
A. The Catacombs of Callixtus in Rome are an extensive underground burial complex that dates back to the 2nd to 4th century AD. Named after Pope Callixtus I, they are a network of tunnels, chambers, and crypts where early Christians, including popes and martyrs, were laid to rest.
A: The Catacombs of Callixtus holds immense historical and religious significance as one of the primary burial sites of early Christians, including popes and martyrs. They offer a glimpse into the ancient Christian burial practices, as well as the art and architecture practices of the time. Today, they are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular tourist attraction.
A: Tickets for the Catacombs of Callixtus can be purchased on-site at the ticket office or online. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure entry.
A: The Catacombs of Callixtus require a separate ticket for entry. However, some combined ticket options may be available that include access to multiple attractions in Rome. You can browse through our carefully curated collection of experiences and choose the ticket best suited for you.
A. The Catacombs of Callixtus were constructed under the supervision of Pope Callixtus I, who was a deacon of Rome at the time.
A: There is generally no age restriction for visiting the catacombs. However, it is important to note that the underground passages can be narrow and dimly lit, which may not be suitable for very young children or individuals with mobility issues. It is advisable to assess your personal comfort and safety before planning a visit.
The Catacombs of Callixtus were built during the mid-2nd century AD. Over time, they expanded and developed into an extensive underground burial complex.
The Catacombs of Callixtus are located at Via Appia Antica, 110/126, 00179 Rome, Italy. They are situated on the right side of the Appian Way, not far from the Church of Domine Quo Vadis.
A: The opening hours of the Catacombs of Callixtus are from Thursday to Tuesday, 9 AM to 12 noon, and 2 PM to 5 PM. However, please note that the catacombs are closed on Wednesdays, as well as on specific holidays such as New Year's Day, Easter, and Christmas.
