As of 2025, the entrance fee for The Catacombs of San Sebastian is €10 for adults, with discounted tickets available at €7 for students, seniors over 65, and children aged 6-15. Entry is complimentary for children under six. Visiting hours vary slightly by season: from April to September, the catacombs open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, while from October to March, they operate from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM. We visited the site on April 10, 2025, and confirm these details were accurate on that date.
Exploring the Mysteries of The Catacombs
Hidden beneath Rome’s bustling streets lie the ancient passageways of the Catacombs of San Sebastian, named after the revered Christian martyr Saint Sebastian. Established initially as pagan burial sites, these catacombs were later adopted by early Christians in the 3rd century AD as secretive resting places and worship spots. Today, the Catacombs of San Sebastian not only offer visitors a window into ancient burial customs but also the rich tapestry of religious and cultural shifts that Rome witnessed through centuries.
Hidden beneath Rome’s bustling streets lie the ancient passageways of the Catacombs of San Sebastian, named after the revered Christian martyr Saint Sebastian.
St Sebastian Catacombs (Catacombe di San Sebastiano)
Descending into these subterranean galleries, visitors encounter a network of winding tunnels and crypts that stretch extensively underground. The walls, adorned sparsely with inscriptions, frescoes, and early Christian symbols, narrate silent yet powerful stories. Among the intriguing highlights, you’ll find the remnants of ancient sarcophagi and the famous “Memoria Apostolorum”, an area traditionally believed to have temporarily safeguarded the remains of apostles Peter and Paul during persecution.
Could there be a more evocative reminder of early Christianity’s trials and resilience than walking through these dimly lit corridors? We suggest allocating at least an hour for your visit, allowing ample time to absorb the historical context provided by the guided tours, which we highly recommend joining. Comfortable footwear and an extra layer of clothing are advisable, as temperatures below ground are noticeably cooler.
Nearby Attractions
After exploring the Catacombs of San Sebastian, we recommend continuing your historical journey by visiting the nearby Appian Way, one of Rome’s oldest roads, lined with ancient tombs, monuments, and ruins that echo Roman antiquity. Additionally, the Basilica of San Sebastiano Fuori le Mura, situated just above the catacombs, merits a visit to admire its beautiful architecture and significant relics.
For refreshments, we found Hostaria Antica Roma, situated conveniently along the Appian Way, offers an authentic Roman dining experience within a charming historic setting. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a quick snack or coffee, Cafè Appia Antica is a pleasant stop with outdoor seating ideal for a brief rest.
Before you conclude your visit, exploring small souvenir shops nearby might be delightful, allowing you to take home a tangible memory of your journey through history.