Everything You Need to Know About the Official Guided Tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome

Exploring the depths of ancient history as an underground tourist can be extremely rewarding, and visiting the Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome is one of the most thrilling ways of doing so. Deep underground, amidst Christian burial sites, lie the tombs of 16 popes including those of Pontian, Cornelius and Sixtus II. These eerie, underground tombstones provide a fascinating glimpse into Rome’s long and mysterious history. Here’s everything you need to know about this official guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome.

What are the Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome?

The Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome is a system of underground cemeteries that cover a wide area near St. Callixtus Church in Rome. The tombs were constructed between the 2nd and 5th centuries by early Christian communities and are now one of the key tourist attractions in Italy. In these Catacombs, Roman Catholics bury their dead in small niches between rocks. The Catacombs also holds several important tombs. These include the tomb of Pope Saint Callixtus I and the tomb of Saint Cecilia, a virgin martyr from the Roman Empire. Additionally, the Catacombs contain tombs for numerous cardinals, other priests, and even a few emperors. The tombs are a mix of regular stone sarcophagi, small stone cubbies, and large chambers used to store multiple bodies. It is said that these catacombs may contain as many as 200,000 burials.

What Can You Expect From an Official Guided Tour?

The official guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome offers an exciting opportunity to explore this ancient Roman site and uncover its mystery and history. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and begins at Piazza della Republica, outside the walls of the Catacombs. Once inside the Catacombs, visitors will be taken along a series of corridors and staircases to discover various chambers beneath the earth. Each chamber contains its own unique story and artifacts, such as frescoes and Roman inscriptions, offering fascinating insights into Rome’s ancient past. During this guided tour, visitors will be able to explore the origins of Christianity in Rome as well as its development over time. The guide will explain in detail about the history and significance behind some of the Catacomb’s features and distinct features, such as its martyrdom-based entry gate. After a thorough exploration, visitors will be able to marvel at the beauty and intricacies found in the chambers before exiting back up to the surface world.

What Should You Consider Before Booking?

Before booking an official guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome, there are several factors that you should consider to maximize your experience and make sure your journey is safe and successful.

Official Tour Guide

When booking a tour, it is important to make sure that a professional guide is included for the experience. A professional guide has the knowledge to enrich your tour by providing additional historical and context-specific information about each site. Moreover, they can help ensure that your journey is safe by providing navigation along with other travelers’ tips.

Payment Options

It’s also important to consider different payment options when booking a guided tour. Many services offer Pay-Per-Seat tours that provide travelers with a great way to save money during their final checkout process. Additionally, some services may offer payment plans or upfront payments before booking a tour. Always double-check payment options before booking to make sure that your purchase adapts to your budget and needs!

Location

Finally, consider where your tour is located and how to access it safely before departing on your journey. If you’re spending time in Rome, it might be worthwhile to consider whether or not other attractions and sites are nearby that you can explore during your free time. The Catacombs are located in an area slightly off-the-beaten-path and are best reached by taking public transportation or walking from nearby metro stations like Termini or Colosseo.

Book Now for an Unforgettable Experience

Making sure that you are aware of all necessary information before booking an official guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome will ensure that you have an amazing experience beneath the streets of Italy’s capital city. With ancient tombs sprawled along endless tunnels beneath the surface and historians friendly guides to help you get around, this tour has all you need for an unforgettable journey into Rome’s past life. Plus, at only $15 per ticket, it’s an unbeatable bargain! So what are you waiting for? Book you Official Guided Tour today for an adventure through Rome’s underground world!

Everything You Need to Know About the Official Guided Tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome

If you are planning a trip to Rome and have an interest in history and archaeology, then a visit to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus should definitely be on your list. This site is one of the most important catacombs in Rome and is known for its rich historical significance. To help you plan your visit, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the official guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus.

1. What are the Catacombs of St. Callixtus?

The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are an underground burial site located in Rome. They were used during the 2nd to the 4th century AD as a burial site for early Christians, including many martyrs and popes. It is named after Pope Callixtus I, who was one of the earliest popes to have been buried in the catacombs.

2. How do I get to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus?

The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are located on the Appian Way, approximately 15km south of Rome city center. The easiest way to get there is by taking the bus, train or a taxi. Buses run from the San Giovanni metro station and take approximately 40 minutes. You can also take a train from Roma Termini to the Appia Antica station, followed by a short walk. If you prefer to take a taxi, expect a fare of around €40-€50 each way.

3. Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?

Yes, you need to purchase tickets in advance for the official guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus. You can purchase your tickets online on the official website of the Vatican Museums or on-site at the entrance. It is highly recommended that you purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long queues and the possibility of the tour being sold out.

4. What is included in the official guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus?

The official guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus includes a guided tour of the underground burial site, along with a visit to the Basilica of St. Cecilia and the Crypt of the Popes. The tour is conducted in both English and Italian and takes approximately 40 minutes. The entrance fee also includes access to the Catacombs of St. Sebastian, which are located nearby.

5. What should I wear when visiting the Catacombs of St. Callixtus?

It is recommended that you wear comfortable shoes and clothing when visiting the Catacombs of St. Callixtus. The temperature inside the catacombs is usually 14-16°C (57-61°F), so it is also advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater. Modest clothing is required and shorts or sleeveless tops are prohibited.

6. Are cameras allowed inside the Catacombs of St. Callixtus?

No, cameras are not allowed inside the Catacombs of St. Callixtus. Photography and videotaping is strictly prohibited inside the catacombs.

7. What else should I know before visiting the Catacombs of St. Callixtus?

It is important to note that the Catacombs of St. Callixtus are a sacred site and visitors should respect this by maintaining silence and decorum during the visit. Touching the walls, frescoes, and niches inside the catacombs is strictly prohibited. You are also not allowed to bring any food or drink into the catacombs.

Conclusion

Visiting the Catacombs of St. Callixtus is a unique and rewarding experience for those interested in history and archaeology. The official guided tour of the catacombs provides visitors with an opportunity to explore this historical site with a knowledgeable guide. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this blog post, you can ensure that your visit to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus is memorable and respectful.