1826-2026
© Catacombe San Sebastiano 2026
Via Appia Antica 136 Rome 00179 Italy
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The origins of Christianity in Rome's oldest catacombs
Ad Catacumbas
I think, for example, of the very important graffiti of the so-called triclia of the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian, the Memoria Apostolorum, where the relics of the Apostles Peter and Paul were venerated together.
Pope Francis' speech to the PCAS plenary session, May 17, 2024
Catacombs of St. Sebastian
Guided Tour - Online Ticket
Visit Rome's most important catacombs
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Basilica
of St. Sebastian
The circus-form basilica built in the 4th cent. with its countless works and major restorations.
The Catacombs
Originally named "adcatacumbas" i.e., "at the hollow" of the Via Appia Antica
Salvator Mundi
The marble bust depicting Christ the Savior, the last work of the great protagonist of the Italian Baroque: Bernini
Necropolis
Three 2nd-century mausoleums richly decorated with original frescoes and stuccoes of the period
Saint Sebastian
For centuries, the Martyr has drawn pilgrims and devotees from all over the world. He is buried in the crypt dedicated to him, an extraordinary 17th-century structure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit the Catacombs of St. Sebastian?
Admission costs €10.00 for adults; children 17 and under pay a reduced rate of €7.00.
Prices published by third-party platforms, tour operators, or resellers may include fees, additional services, transfers, or other products and do not represent the official admission price for the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian.
How long does a tour of the Catacombs of St. Sebastian take?
The tour of the Catacombs of St. Sebastian lasts about 40 to 45 minutes, during which the presence of an expert in-house guide is required.
What are the most beautiful catacombs in Rome?
The most beautiful and admired catacombs in Rome are those of San Sebasiano: they are the largest and most important in Rome. The underground cemetery, with its three levels; the pagan mausoleums from the 2nd century A.D.; and the early Christian basilica built by Constantine—an archaeological gem on the Appian Way.
What evidence attests to the importance of the Catacombs of S. Sebastian?
The Catacombs of Saint Sebastian, millennia-old guardians of the Christian faith along the Appian Way, were for centuries the beating heart of the faith for the Apostles Peter and Paul, leaving an indelible mark on the minds of writers, saints, and scientists. As early as the 4th century, the *Depositio Martyrum* and the eloquent pen of Saint Ambrose celebrated their sacredness. In the centuries that followed, these tunnels inspired the profound devotion of Saint Philip Neri, who experienced his Pentecost within these passages. With the advent of modern archaeology, figures of the caliber of Antonio Bosio, Giovanni Battista de Rossi, and Orazio Marucchi explored this immense labyrinth, revealing its secrets linked to the veneration of the Apostles Peter and Paul. Finally, poets and writers on their travels to Rome—such as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Charles Dickens—were captivated by the solemn and primordial charm of this place, passing it on to the entire world as the eternal symbol of underground Rome.
How long are the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian in miles?
The catacombs stretch for about 12 miles of tunnels; they are the oldest and deepest in Rome. With three levels, they reach a depth of up to 18 meters below ground, and at the deepest point, there is a pagan necropolis that is open to visitors, making it an extraordinary place to explore.
Why are catacombs dug underground?
Roman law—more specifically, the Law of the Twelve Tables—prohibited the burial of deceased loved ones within the city walls; therefore, the early Christians were forced to dig niches and cubicles in the abandoned quarries along the Appian Way for their deceased. From the 3rd to the 5th century A.D., they excavated and constructed the underground cemetery, covering an area of approximately 1 square kilometer.
Is it cold inside the catacombs?
Inside the Catacombs, the temperature remains constant, ranging between 17 and 18 degrees all year round; a light jacket is recommended in the summer.
On which days are the catacombs open?
They are open every day except Monday, from 9:15 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. The last guided tour in English departs at 4:45 p.m.
Why are they called the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian?
Throughout the 6th century A.D., pilgrims visiting the cemetery adjacent to the Memoria Apostolorum, where Saints Peter and Paul were honored, also made their way to the tomb of the martyr Sebastian. The figure of Saint Sebastian became particularly popular in 680 AD when, according to tradition, the Romans carried his relics in procession outside the city walls to ask for his intercession against the plague; the epidemic ceased, and Saint Sebastian was thus declared a miracle-worker against infectious diseases, while the basilica was named “Sancti Sebastiani.” For his work in supporting and comforting Christians, Pope Saint Caius called him the “Defender of the Church.” Venerated on January 20, Saint Sebastian is today considered the third patron saint of Rome, alongside the two Apostles Peter and Paul.
How do you get to the catacombs?
The catacombs are located in the southern part of Rome on the Via Appia Antica. By public transportation, the most convenient and easily accessible stop is at Via Appia Antica 136: the ATAC stop “Basilica and Catacombs of St. Sebastian,” where buses 118 and 660 stop right in front of the catacombs’ entrance, so you don’t have to walk very far.
Bus 118 departs from the Metro Line B stop “Colosseo,” while bus 660 departs from the Metro Line A stop “Arco di Travertino,” and both buses easily reach the catacombs.