A Look at the Jewish Catacombs in Rome

What are Jewish Catacombs in Rome?

Jewish catacombs in Rome are ancient underground burial sites primarily used by the Jewish community during the late Roman Empire. Out of the six catacombs, only two remain today. These catacombs served as repositories for the deceased, preserving Jewish burial traditions while accommodating the limitations imposed on their religious practices. Rich in historical and cultural significance, Jewish catacombs offer valuable insights into the lives and customs of ancient Jewish communities.

Why Visit the Jewish Catacombs in Rome?

Historical significance: The Jewish Catacombs in Rome date back to the date between 2 BCE to 5 CE. Jewish tradition believes that Adam and Eve were buried here, holding supreme religious significance.
Architectural marvel: The catacombs feature beautiful frescoes, classic Jewish religious epitaphs, and symbols that showcase the artistic skills of the era. Visitors can appreciate the intricate details and symbolism depicted on the walls, amidst the labyrinth of passages.
Cultural Insight: Gain valuable insights into the diverse tapestry of Rome's past and the contributions of the Jewish community. It offers an opportunity to learn about their traditions, rituals, and the challenges Jewish people faced at the time.
Off-the-Beaten-Path: The Jewish Catacombs in Rome offers a less crowded and off-the-beaten-path experience allowing visitors to explore a hidden gem and discover a lesser-known aspect of the city's history, away from the usual tourist crowds.

Plan Your Visit to Jewish Catacombs

What are the Jewish Catacombs Opening Hours?

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Closed: Mondays
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Jewish Catacombs in Rome is between June to September (peak season) and October to March (low season). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it comfortable to explore the underground sites. It is also advised to visit the catacombs in the early morning or late afternoon on weekends to avoid crowds.

Where are the Jewish Catacombs Located?

Address: Via Appia Pignatelli, 2, 00178 Roma RM, Italy

The Jewish Catacombs in Rome is located on the Appian Way, also known as Via Appia Antica, stretching southeast from the city center of Rome.

What’s Inside the Jewish Catacombs in Rome?

Catacombs of Vigna Randanini

The Catacombs of Vigna Randanini on the Via Appia is the only site currently open to the public. Visitors can access the hypogeal area via a passageway dating back to the 1st Century BC and 1st Century AD. Inside the catacombs, you'll notice the *loculi *or tombs arranged along the walls. You'll also come across the *kokhim *tombs that are dug just beneath the floor, perpendicular to the walls. These tombs are unique to the region, and the Vigna Randanini catacombs are the only example of such tombs in the Roman Jewish catacombs.

As you explore further, you'll come across the cubicula or chambers for multiple burials. Some of these burial spaces are richly frescoed and adorned with symbols from the Hebrew tradition. However, some of the motifs found on the walls are commonly seen in other Roman catacombs and date back to a period before their use by the Jewish community in the 3rd and 4th centuries. It's believed that they were incorporated into the catacombs after they were no longer in use.

History of the Jewish Catacombs in Rome

In the past, six Jewish catacombs existed between the 2nd Century BC and the 5th Century AD. Over time, only two catacombs have endured: Villa Randanini and Villa Torlonia. Presently, efforts are underway to restore Villa Torlonia.

During those times, land in Rome was costly, and in Israel, a similar burial system called Kukhim graves was in place. Therefore, the Jewish community in Rome utilized the existing pagan catacombs, abandoned during barbarian invasions and forgotten until the 19th century. These catacombs not only met the economic and practical needs but also aligned with biblical teachings. Consequently, they became the ideal resting place for both common individuals and scribes.

Discovered in 1859 by an Italian priest and archaeologist, the site is nestled beneath a privately-owned vineyard (vigna) belonging to a Marquise. It holds a distinctive status within the Mediterranean due to its remarkable state of preservation and the abundance of pictorial decorations that reflect both pagan and Jewish traditions, accompanied by inscriptions.

Jewish Catacombs Today

Go for a Jewish Catacombs tour as it takes you to the crypt. As you enter the 400 meters long cubicula, you will be transported to 22 centuries ago, when Jewish settlers in Rome needed land to bury their people. Through these catacombs, you can discover and understand the lives of the first Jews in Rome. Get insights into their cultural practices, and their social organization. A part of the catacombs (Villa Torlonia) is under restoration.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Jewish Catacombs in Rome

What are Jewish Catacombs?

Jewish catacombs are underground burial chambers that were used by ancient Jewish communities as a place for interring their deceased.

How old are Jewish Catacombs in Rome?

The Jewish Catacombs in Rome date back to the 2nd Century BC and the 5th Century AD.

What is Vigna Randanini Catacombs?

The Vigna Randanini Catacombs are a part of the larger network of Christian catacombs in Rome and are named after the Vigna Randanini vineyard above them. It is the only Jewish catacombs site accessible today.

Are Jewish buried standing up in the catacombs?

There is no evidence to suggest that Jews were buried standing up in the catacombs. The bodies were buried in a supine position, lying on their back.

Is there a dress code for visiting the Jewish Catacombs?

Visitors are advised to dress modestly out of respect for the religious significance of the site. Moreover, the catacombs are damp, rough, and can get chilly! It is recommended to wear shoes with good grip to provide traction on slippery surfaces.

Is the Jewish Catacombs in Rome accessible to people with disabilities?

Unfortunately, the rough terrain of the site makes it inaccessible for people with restricted mobility. There isn’t any wheelchair facility available as well.

Is photography allowed inside the catacombs?

Yes, you are allowed to take pictures inside the Jewish Catacombs in Rome. However, you might need to use your flash from time to time as the catacombs are very dimly lit.