Ancient Christian SiteCatacombs of San Sebastiano (Saint Sebastian)
Traditionally called ad catacumbas, home to Peter and Paul's memoria apostolorum, Sebastian's tomb, and one of the longest traditions of continuous pilgrimage at Appia Antica 136.
1–1.5 hours€10 guided tour1st c. ADAppia Antica 136Via Appia Antica, 136, 00179 RomaOpen on MapPlan Your Visit
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Get TicketsBook a TourHotels NearbyBy AllTrips Editors••8 min readThe Catacombs of San Sebastiano (also known as the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian, Italian: Catacombe di San Sebastiano) are the original Roman catacomb — the very tunnels called ad catacumbas, from the Greekkata kymbas, "near the hollows". Carved into abandoned pozzolana quarries beneath Appia Antica 136 from the 1st century AD, these underground cemeteries briefly housed the relics of Peter and Paul in the 3rd-century memoria apostolorum, became the burial place of the martyred Roman soldier Saint Sebastian and the freedmanClodius Hermes, and are often described as the Roman catacomb with the longest tradition of continuous pilgrim visits.
Every visit to the Catacombs of San Sebastiano is a 30–40 minute guided tourthat also includes the Basilica of St Sebastian (San Sebastiano fuori le mura) directly above. The site is easy to reach on public transportation — bus 118 from central Rome viaPiazza Venezia or Circo Massimo, or the Archeobus, both stop near the gate on the Appian Way (check current ATAC routing, as diversions are common).
📋 In This Guide
Duration
1–1.5 hr
Cost
€10
Photos
Above only
Type
Christian catacomb
Why Visit the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian?
Of Rome's five catacombs open to the public, San Sebastiano is the most concentrated experience: the original "catacomb" by name, the brief hiding place of Christianity's two most important apostles, the tomb of one of its most celebrated martyrs, and one with a long tradition of continuous use. The basilica above is included for free, the Appian Way starts at the gate, and the whole visit is reachable by city bus.
The Original 'Catacomb'
The word itself was coined here — Greek 'kata kymbas' (near the hollows) described this exact stretch of Appian Way before becoming a global term.
Where Peter & Paul Hid
According to early Christian tradition, the relics of Peter and Paul were temporarily kept here around AD 258. The Triclia chamber still bears 600+ pilgrim graffiti from the 3rd century begging their intercession.
Saint Sebastian's Tomb
The Roman soldier secretly converted to Christianity, executed by arrows in 288 AD. His original burial niche is still here.
A Long Tradition of Continuous Pilgrimage
While many other catacombs were forgotten and later rediscovered, tradition holds that San Sebastiano stayed in continuous use — often described as one of the longest-visited pilgrimage sites among Rome's catacombs.
What to See on the Tour
The Underground Galleries
Narrow corridors lined with thousands of 'loculi' — burial niches stacked four to six high, originally sealed with marble or terracotta slabs.
The Triclia of Peter & Paul
A 3rd-century funeral-banquet hall whose plaster walls are covered in over 600 invocations to the apostles — the strongest evidence that their relics passed through here.
Crypt of Saint Sebastian
The original burial niche of the soldier-martyr, marked by a 17th-century altar but the loculus itself is original.
Three Pagan Mausolea
At the deepest level, three well-preserved 1st-century AD tombs — frescoed ceilings, stucco decoration, the names of the families inscribed.
Early Christian Symbols
Fish (ichthys), anchor (hope), dove (peace), the Chi-Rho monogram — the visual code of the persecuted Roman church.
Basilica San Sebastiano (free)
Above the catacombs — one of the seven pilgrimage churches of Rome. Bernini's bust of the Salvator Mundi (his last sculpture) is here, plus the Domine Quo Vadis footprint stone.
Two Thousand Years Underground
From pagan burial ground to Christian sanctuary to Bernini-decorated pilgrimage site — the longest continuously visited catacomb in the world.
1st c. ADPagan Origins
Three private mausolea are carved into the tufa here — the catacomb's deepest and oldest level.
2nd c. ADChristian Cemetery
Roman Christians begin using the abandoned tufa quarry as a community burial ground, expanding it dramatically.
258 ADPeter & Paul's Refuge
According to early Christian tradition, the relics of Peter and Paul were temporarily kept in the Triclia during Emperor Valerian's persecution. Pilgrims immediately begin scratching invocations into the plaster.
288 ADSebastian's Martyrdom
The Roman soldier-martyr Saint Sebastian is buried here, eventually giving his name to the entire complex.
4th c. ADBasilica Built
Constantine's son builds the first basilica above — one of the original seven pilgrimage churches of Rome.
Middle AgesContinuous Pilgrimage
While other Roman catacombs are forgotten and lost, tradition holds that San Sebastiano remains in continuous use through the medieval period.
1612Baroque Restoration
Cardinal Scipione Borghese rebuilds the basilica above. Bernini contributes his final sculpture — the bust of the Salvator Mundi — installed here.
PresentA Long Legacy of Visitors
Often described as one of the longest continuously visited Roman catacombs. Guided tours run today in five languages.
Tickets & Tours
🎟️ Standard Ticket — €10
Includes 30–40 min guided tour of the catacombs and entry to the basilica above. €7 reduced for ages 7–16 and students under 25. Free for under-7s. Visits are guided only, and booking is officially recommended.
⚡ Skip-the-Line Online
Pre-booked online tickets guarantee a tour slot in your language at your chosen time — useful in summer, when walk-up visitors may have to wait for the next English-language tour.
⏰ Opening Hours
Tuesday–Sunday 09:15–17:15 (last entry 16:45). Closed every Monday, plus 1 January, Easter Sunday and 25 December. Annual 2026 closure: 7–27 December.
🌐 Tour Languages
English, Italian, French, German and Spanish run regularly. Other languages on request — pre-booking is the only way to guarantee them.
Best Time to Visit
Time of Day
09:15–10:45 AM ⭐ Best: Smallest tour groups, freshest guides.
Late afternoon (15:30–16:45): Light again as tour buses leave.
Avoid 12:00–14:00: Peak coach-tour overlap with neighbouring San Callisto.
Closed every Monday: The single most-missed detail.
Season
Spring (Mar–May) ⭐ Best: Pleasant Appian Way walking weather, manageable crowds.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Soft light, mild temperatures, golden umbrella pines.
Summer: The 15°C underground is a relief from the heat — but tour groups peak.
Winter: Quiet but check for the annual 7–27 December 2026 closure.
Rules & What to Bring
📵 No Photography Underground
Strictly forbidden — no flash, no phones. The rule helps protect the fragile ancient frescoes and plaster and respects the sacred burial site. The basilica above is fine for photos.
🧥 Bring a Light Layer
15°C / 59°F year-round underground — even welcome in July, essential in winter.
👟 Flat, Comfortable Shoes
Uneven tufa floors and stairs. No heels, no flip-flops.
👗 Modest Dress (basilica)
Cover shoulders and knees for the basilica above. The catacombs themselves are less strict but the same rule is best practice.
San Sebastiano vs Other Roman Catacombs
| Catacomb | Cost | Size | Highlight | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Sebastiano | €10 | Medium (12 km) | Triclia of Peter & Paul, basilica above | Medium |
| San Callisto | €10 | Largest (20 km) | Crypt of the Popes, Saint Cecilia | High (coach tours) |
| Domitilla | €10 | Vast (17 km) | Intact 4th-century underground basilica | Medium |
| Priscilla | €10 | Medium | Earliest known image of the Madonna | Low |
| Sant'Agnese | €8 | Small | Tomb of St. Agnes, intimate scale | Very low |
San Sebastiano wins on historical density (Peter, Paul, Sebastian and the traditional link to the 'catacomb' name) and includes the basilica free. San Callisto wins on scale and famous crypts. Both are open Tuesday–Sunday, 09:15–17:15 (closed Mondays), and are roughly a 10-minute walk apart along Via Appia Antica — many visitors do both in one Appian Way day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Showing up on a Monday
Closed every Monday. The single most common error — many visitors arrive to a locked gate.
Assuming San Sebastiano + San Callisto are one ticket
They're roughly a 10-minute walk apart along Via Appia Antica but completely separate — €10 each, two separate tours. Budget time for both if you want both.
Walking up without booking
In summer the next English-language tour may be some time away. Pre-booking guarantees a slot in your language.
Sneaking a phone photo
Guides watch closely and the rule is enforced — it helps protect the fragile ancient plaster and respects the sacred site, so it's non-negotiable.
Skipping the basilica
It's free with your ticket and contains Bernini's last sculpture. Most visitors miss it entirely.
Taking a taxi out and back
€25+ each way. Bus 118 from central Rome is far cheaper and stops near the gate — just check current ATAC routing, as diversions are common. The Appian Way is easier and cheaper than it looks.
Nearby Colosseum & Forum Tickets
Bus 118 connects the catacombs directly to the Colosseum area — pair an Appian Way morning with a Colosseum afternoon for the perfect ancient Rome day. Skip-the-line options below.
Colosseum Priority Entrance
Best for: First-time visitors
~2 hoursSkip-the-line access to the Colosseum with entry to Roman Forum and Palatine Hill included. Perfect for first-time visitors.
- Skip-the-line entry
- Colosseum access
- Roman Forum included
- Palatine Hill included
🎟️ Compare Prices:
TiqetsKlookTrip.comColosseum Guided Tour
Best for: History enthusiasts
~3 hoursExpert-led tour with professional guide sharing gladiator history, architecture secrets, and ancient Roman stories.
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Skip-the-line entry
- In-depth historical commentary
- Small group experience
🎟️ Compare Prices:
TiqetsKlookTrip.comColosseum Arena & Underground
Best for: Unique experience seekers
~3.5 hoursWalk where gladiators fought on the arena floor and explore the underground chambers where they awaited their fate.
- Arena Floor access
- Underground chambers access
- Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
- Expert guided tour included
🎟️ Compare Prices:
TiqetsKlookTrip.comPair Your Visit With
Tomb of Cecilia Metella25-minute walk south on the original Roman basalt — the iconic gateway to the most beautiful stretch of Appian Way.
Appian WayThe catacomb gate opens straight onto the most evocative ancient road in the world. Walk or rent a bike.
ColosseumBus 118 connects them directly — pair an Appian Way morning with a Colosseum afternoon for a perfect ancient Rome day.
Must-See Highlights
The Triclia — 3rd-century banqueting hall covered in 600+ pilgrim graffiti invoking Peter and PaulCrypt of Saint Sebastian — the original burial niche of the Roman soldier-martyrPagan mausolea — three well-preserved 1st-century AD tombs at the catacomb's lowest levelEarly Christian symbols — fish (ichthys), anchor, dove, Chi-Rho monogram throughout the loculiBasilica San Sebastiano fuori le mura — one of Rome's seven pilgrimage churches, free entryBernini's bust of the Salvator Mundi — the great sculptor's last work, in the basilicaDomine Quo Vadis stone — the supposed footprints of Christ, kept in the basilicaOriginal Appian Way basalt — walk straight out of the gate onto 2,300-year-old Roman roadGetting There
🚍 Bus 118 (best)
From central Rome via Piazza Venezia or Circo Massimo — get off near San Sebastiano. Check current ATAC routing before departure, as diversions on this route are common.
🚌 Archeobus
Hop-on-hop-off from Termini. Stops at the catacombs and continues to other Appian Way sites — best for visiting multiple monuments in one day.
🚲 Bike from the Centre
Hire at Porta San Sebastiano and ride out — about 40 minutes from the Colosseum, traffic-free past the catacombs. The most atmospheric arrival.
Where to Stay Near Catacombs of Saint Sebastian
Looking for convenient accommodation near Catacombs of Saint Sebastian? Stay within walking distance to make the most of your visit.
Hotels Near This AttractionTop Rated HotelsBudget-Friendly OptionsLuxury HotelsCentral locations with easy access to Catacombs of Saint Sebastian and other attractionsFrequently Asked Questions
What makes the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian different from the others?
Several things set San Sebastiano apart: (1) it is broadly linked to the origin of the term 'catacomb', from the phrase ad catacumbas describing the local terrain, though the exact Greek derivation is debated among scholars; (2) archaeological evidence, including the Triclia graffiti chamber, supports the tradition that the relics of Saints Peter and Paul were venerated or temporarily housed here in 258 AD during the Valerian persecution; (3) it is often described as having one of the longest records of continuous pilgrim visits among Rome's catacombs.
How much does it cost to visit in 2026?
Standard ticket €10 adults, €7 reduced (ages 7–16, and students under 25). Free for under-7s. Visits are guided only and booking is officially recommended.
Is the visit always with a guide?
Yes — independent visits are not allowed. All entry is via a 30–40 minute guided tour included in the ticket. Tours run continuously in English, Italian, French, German and Spanish — you'll be matched to the next departing tour in your language on arrival.
Can I take photos inside?
No. Photography (including phone, with or without flash) is forbidden inside the catacombs, both to help protect the fragile ancient frescoes and plaster and out of respect for the sacred burial site. The basilica above and the courtyard are fine for photos.
Is it suitable for claustrophobic visitors?
The galleries are narrow (about 80 cm wide) and the ceilings are mostly 2.5 m high. Most claustrophobic visitors manage with the well-lit main route, but if you have a strong reaction to enclosed spaces this is not the catacomb for you. The Catacombs of Domitilla are slightly more open.
Are the catacombs wheelchair accessible?
No. The route involves multiple staircases and uneven tufa floors. Visitors with serious mobility issues should explore the basilica above (which is accessible) and skip the underground portion.
How do I get there from central Rome?
Take bus 118 from central Rome via Piazza Venezia or Circo Massimo and get off near San Sebastiano — check current ATAC routing before departure, since diversions are common. The Archeobus hop-on-hop-off from Termini also stops here. By bike, it's about a 40-minute ride from the Colosseum along Via di Porta San Sebastiano.
Should I visit San Sebastiano or San Callisto?
The two sites are roughly a 10-minute walk apart along Via Appia Antica, and tickets are NOT combined. San Callisto is bigger, has the famous Crypt of the Popes, and is the most popular. San Sebastiano is smaller, more intimate, has the Peter & Paul Triclia, and the basilica above is included free. If you only have time for one, San Sebastiano is more concentrated and historically richer.
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ExploreQuick Planning Guide
⏱️ Time Needed
1–1.5 hours
💰 Cost
€10 adults, €7 reduced
🎫 Reservation
Strongly recommended
♿ Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible
📅 Best Time
Tue–Sun, 09:15–10:45
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
Recommended 7+
🌡️ Weather
Underground 15°C year-round
Nearby Attractions
Catacombs of San Callisto~10-min walk
Tomb of Cecilia Metella25-min walk
Circus of Maxentius10-min walk
Appian Waygate to gate
Baths of CaracallaBus 118
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5 Day Rome ItineraryHidden Gems of RomeClassic Rome ItineraryEssential Tips
- ✓ Closed every Monday — plan around it
- ✓ Bring a light jacket — 15°C underground year-round
- ✓ Wear flat shoes for uneven tufa floors
- ✓ All visits are guided — pre-book your language slot
- ✓ Combine with the Tomb of Cecilia Metella for a perfect Appian Way day