In Rome, the practice of burying the dead in underground chambers can be traced back to the Etruscan Civilization of ancient Italy. Although cremation was once popular, funeral customs gradually shifted to inhumation (burial of unburnt remains) and then burial with the rise of Christianity and belief in the bodily resurrection of the Second Coming.
Rome banned funeral burials within the city, forcing Jews and early Christians, who usually could not afford burial land, to dig an extensive network of tunnels into the soft volcanic rock outside the city limits. These catacombs were used for funeral and memorial services, and were often named after martyrs like St. Callixtus who were laid to rest there. There are now 60 known sites, which lie 20–60 feet underground, connected by narrow stairways and passages. The custom was to house the bodies in stone sarcophagi and place them in burial niches, many of which were decorated with some of the earliest examples of Christian art.
Catacombs eventually fell out of favor, with Christians opting for church cemeteries. By 380, Gratian made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire, and catacombs were reserved solely for memorial services. The later Germanic tribes that sacked Rome violated the burial sites, which were eventually abandoned and forgotten about. They were not seen again until 1578 when scholar Antonio Bosio accidentally stumbled upon the burial site. In 1849, archeologist Giovanni Battista de Rossi discovered the Catacombs of Callixtus and published their first extensive study. Today the catacombs are managed by the papacy, and are acknowledged as a monument to early Christianity.
Miles of tunnels around Rome are now open for the public to see. St. Callixtus is the largest and most popular, housing nine popes and a network that measures more than 19 kilometers long and 20 meters deep. St. Domitilla is the oldest, and contains a 2nd-century fresco of the Last Supper. The third most popular catacomb site is St. Sebastian, which is famous for early Christian art and graffiti.
Read This Next
Top 5: Cemeteries in Georgia
North America
Dec 31, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Mar 31, 2025Which Are the Safest U.S. National Parks?
If you are hesitant to explore U.S. national parks for outdoor adventure this summer as less staffing and other issues could mean potentially greater danger for tourists — and because, yes, most parks experience some guest injury incidents each year, sometimes even fatalities — personal injury law firm Mallow Law Office can ease your worries. The law office crunched the numbers to identify the safest national parks in the country based on fatalities from 2014 to 2023. The results?
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Mar 31, 2025Italian Castle Hotel Unveils Cultural Experiences for 2025
Housed in a 12th-century castle, COMO Castello Del Nero reopened for the season with a host of cultural experiences. This 750-acre estate in the Tuscan countryside invites guests to immerse themselves in the charms of the region.
Destinations / North America
Mar 31, 2025You Should Visit Port Gamble, Washington, This Season: Here’s Why
Just a ferry ride from Seattle is a storybook village with 19th-century, New England-style houses, bay views; boutique shops; and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Port Gamble sits on Washington’s Kitsap Peninsula, and spring and summer are perfect times to visit this scenic destination. Here’s why:
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Hotel
Mar 28, 2025JW Marriott Opens New Resort in the Maldives
JW Marriott just opened its second resort in the Maldives, as of February. The new property, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, is a 15-minute boat ride from Velana International Airport, and offers 80 private pool villas, including nearly 50 overwater pool villas. Each villa further features its own terrace, views of the Indian Ocean and water access. A larger residence is available for traveling groups.
ShareThis