Exploring the Enigmatic Catacombs of San Callisto
Discover the Catacombs of San Callisto, a key historical landmark in Rome showcasing ancient Christian burial practices and stunning frescoes.
The Catacombs of San Callisto in Rome offer a profound glimpse into the city's ancient Christian history. Spanning over 20 kilometers of underground tunnels, these catacombs house the tombs of early martyrs and popes, showcasing intricate frescoes and fascinating burial practices that date back to the 2nd century. A visit here is not just a tour; it’s a journey through time, revealing the faith and resilience of early Christians in Rome.
A brief summary to Catacombe di San Callisto
- Via Appia Antica, 110/126, Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, 00179, IT
- +39065130151
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-12 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-12 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-12 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-12 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-12 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-12 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure a spot.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be uneven and require walking for extended periods.
- Bring a light jacket; the temperature inside the catacombs is cooler than outside.
- Visit during weekdays for a less crowded experience.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history of the catacombs.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Sistine Chapel, exit the Vatican Museums and head towards the main gate. Once you exit, turn left onto Viale Vaticano and continue walking straight until you reach Piazza San Pietro. At the piazza, you should see St. Peter's Basilica on your right. From here, head down Via della Conciliazione until you reach the Tiber River. Cross the river using the Ponte Sant'Angelo. After crossing, continue straight onto Lungotevere Castello, then take a left onto Via di San Giovanni in Laterano. Follow this street until you reach the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano. Continue straight and turn left onto Via Appia Antica, where you will find the Catacombe di San Callisto at Via Appia Antica, 110/126.
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Public Transport
From the Sistine Chapel, walk to the nearest bus stop on Viale Vaticano. Take bus number 23 towards 'Piazza Risorgimento' and get off at the third stop. Transfer to metro line A at Ottaviano - San Pietro station. Go towards Anagnina and get off at the 'San Giovanni' station. From there, exit the station and walk down Via di San Giovanni in Laterano, then turn left onto Via Appia Antica, where you will find the Catacombe di San Callisto at Via Appia Antica, 110/126.
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Bicycle
If you are renting a bicycle near the Vatican, exit the Vatican Museums and head towards Viale Vaticano. Follow this road straight until you reach the Tiber River. Turn left and follow the riverbank path until you reach Ponte Sant'Angelo. Cross the bridge and continue straight onto Lungotevere Castello. Once on Lungotevere Castello, turn left onto Via di San Giovanni in Laterano and continue straight. Finally, turn left onto Via Appia Antica, where the Catacombe di San Callisto is located at Via Appia Antica, 110/126.
Discover more about Catacombe di San Callisto
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