Catacomb of Callixtus Archaeological Site

Address: Via Appia Antica, Rome, Italy (Catacombs of Callixtus)

Website: https://catacombe.org/en/

Hours: Tue-Sun 9:00am-5:00pm, closed Mondays

Admission: €8-€12 (approx.) for guided tours; discounts for EU citizens and children may apply

The Catacomb of Callixtus is one of Rome’s principal ancient Christian burial complexes located along the Appian Way, with major phases dating from the 2nd to the 4th centuries. It served as an important cemetery and memorial site for early Christian communities and church leaders.

The complex includes long underground galleries, loculi and named burial chambers, including the Crypt of the Popes where several early bishops of Rome were interred. Visitors encounter early Christian funerary art, carved inscriptions and dedicated chapels such as the chapel associated with St Cecilia.

The catacomb grew under the administration of burial custodians and cemetery officials in the Roman imperial period and remained a key place of commemoration for early Christians. Over time it was mapped, conserved and opened for pilgrim and scholarly visitation.

The entrance to the catacomb lies along the Appian Way to the south-east of Rome’s historic centre, within the stretch of ancient Roman roads and monuments that line the Appian Way.

• Papal burials: Contains the Crypt of the Popes where multiple early bishops of Rome were buried and commemorated during the 3rd century.

What to See#

• Crypt of the Popes: An underground chamber known as the Crypt of the Popes where several early popes and important Christian burials were located in the 2nd and 3rd centuries.
• Chapel of St Cecilia: A small decorated chapel associated with the martyrdom and cult of St Cecilia within the catacomb complex.
• Burial galleries: Extensive underground galleries and burial cubicles that form part of the larger catacomb network along the Appian Way.

The Catacombs of Callixtus are located on the Via Appia Antica. From Rome city centre take bus line 118 or 218 toward the Appian Way, or drive and park at the site. Direct guided tours depart from the visitor centre; it is about 6-8 km southeast of the Colosseum.

• Book a guided tour to access lesser-known chambers; trained guides help place inscriptions and fresco fragments in context.
• Wear a hat and carry a torch if joining extended tours; some corridors can be low and dimly lit.
• Respect the catacombs' rules: photography can be restricted and flash damages pigments.