Catacombs of Saint Sebastian Tours

Catacombs of Saint Sebastian: Dive into the depths of faith

Experience the haunting beauty of the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian, one of Rome’s oldest underground burial sites. Originally called ad catacumbas ("near the hollows") due to nearby pozzolana quarries, the term later became synonymous with Christian burial chambers. Transformed into a sacred necropolis in the 4th century, they once held the remains of Saint Sebastian, a revered martyr and key pilgrimage figure. Walk through intricate passages decorated with ancient frescoes and learn about fascinating history of early Christianity in Rome. Read more to find more exciting ways of unearthing Rome’s underground secrets.

Things to know before you book Catacombs of Saint Sebastian tours

• Entry to the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian is only available through guided tours. The good news? Your guide will share all the exciting insights about early Christian burial practices, how the site transitioned from pagan to sacred, and Saint Sebastian’s incredible story.
• The Catacombs of Saint Sebastian are amongst tourist favorites. During peak seasons like summer and holidays, spots fill up fast. Book your tickets at least two weeks in advance to avoid the dreaded “No availability”.
• Sure, you could catch a bus (routes 118 or 218) or even bike along the Appian Way for some adventure. But let’s face it—round-trip transfers included in a tour mean you don’t have to worry about a thing. Just sit back, relax, and focus on what’s waiting underground.
• Book a tour that pairs the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian with other treasures along the Appian Way. You’ll get to visit Basilica di San Sebastiano, located right above the catacombs, and even check out nearby sites like the Catacombs of St. Callixtus. You can hit greatest hotspots of early Christian history—all in one journey!
• The catacombs are not wheelchair accessible and may be challenging for those with claustrophobia, severe mobility issues, or respiratory conditions. Be prepared for uneven terrain, around 50 steps, and confined spaces.

What are Catacombs of Saint Sebastian opening hours?

• New opening hours (from January 1, 2025):
  Tuesday to Sunday: 9:15am - 5:15pm
  Last entrance: 4:45pm
  Closing day: Monday
• Additional closing days:
  Closed on December 25 (Christmas), January 1 (New Year's Day), and Easter Sunday.
  Annual closing period from December 2 to December 22, 2025.

Best time to visit Catacombs of Saint Sebastian

The best time to visit the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian is early in the morning, right at opening, for a peaceful experience before crowds arrive. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.

For a quieter visit, go during the off-peak season from November to March, when tourist numbers are lower, enjoy a more intimate exploration of the catacombs. In contrast, the peak season from April to October, especially summer, sees a significant increase in visitors. Opting for a weekday visit during the off-peak months enhances the serene and historical ambiance of this ancient site.

Timeline: History of the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian

• Late 2nd Century AD: Originally a pagan cemetery, the site was converted into a Christian necropolis. The remains of Saints Peter and Paul were temporarily hidden here to protect them from desecration by the Romans. The name “ad catacumbas” (meaning "near the hollows") originated from the nearby pozzolana quarries, later becoming synonymous with underground burial chambers.
• 350 AD: Saint Sebastian, a Christian martyr killed during the persecution of Diocletian, was buried in the catacombs. Emperor Constantine built a basilica over his tomb, which contained relics like the arrow that pierced him and marble footprints believed to be those of Jesus.
• 9th Century AD: The catacombs were abandoned following invasions by the Lombards and Saracens.
• 16th Century AD: Rediscovered by Antonio Bosio, who explored and documented the catacombs.
• Present day: The site has been restored and is open to the public, serving as one of Rome’s seven pilgrimage churches and a vital testament to early Christian faith.

Visitor tips

• The catacombs contain intricate details, including frescoes and inscriptions that tell stories of faith. Allow yourself ample time to absorb the atmosphere and reflect on the significance of what you’re seeing.
• The underground environment can feel stuffy, so consider bringing a small bottle of water to stay hydrated during your exploration, especially if you're visiting during warmer months.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking through uneven surfaces and narrow pathways. While there’s no strict dress code, modest clothing is recommended out of respect for this sacred site. Bring a light sweater or jacket to stay comfortable during your visit.
• The catacombs do not have modern amenities like restrooms inside. It’s advisable to use facilities before entering or find nearby options, as there are no toilets within the site.