Catacomb of Callixtus, Ancient Christian burial site on Via Appia, Rome, Italy
The Catacomb of Callixtus is an underground burial ground from the early Christian period on the Via Appia. The site contains multiple levels with burial chambers whose walls are decorated with frescoes and religious images.
The site emerged in the 2nd century and became the official burial ground of the Roman Church in the 3rd century. It served for centuries as a burial place for Christian believers and was later damaged by raids.
The name comes from Callixtus, a deacon who managed the burial site in the early Church. Walking through the passages, you see Christian symbols and inscriptions that show how the first believers honored their dead.
The underground site can only be explored on guided tours led by experienced guides. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as temperatures below ground are cool and the passages are narrow.
Among all the early Christian burials, this site holds the remains of nine popes from the first centuries of Christianity. This rare collection makes the catacomb an exceptional window into the leadership of the early Church.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
