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Catacombs of Domitilla Tickets & Tours

Top Domitilla Tours explained

What to See Inside the Domitilla Catacombs

History

    • The Catacombs of Domitilla are the oldest surviving Christian catacombs in Rome, dating back to the 2nd century AD.

    • They were established on land owned by Flavia Domitilla, a noblewoman from the Flavian dynasty and an early Christian sympathiser.

    • Spanning over 17 kilometers, these catacombs are among the largest in the catacombs Rome Italy network and reach a depth of approximately 30 metres.

    • Early Christians used this underground cemetery to safely bury their dead and practice their faith during times of persecution.

    • The site includes a rare subterranean basilica built above the tombs of the martyrs Nereus and Achilleus — a unique feature not found in most Roman catacombs.

    • The walls are decorated with early Christian frescoes depicting scenes like the Good Shepherd and the Last Supper, offering insight into spiritual life in ancient Rome.

    • Inscriptions in both Latin and Greek reflect the diversity of Rome's Christian community, including freed slaves, common citizens, and the elite.

    • Entrusted to the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) since 2009, the catacombs continue to serve as a pilgrimage site and key stop in many catacombs tours in Rome.
     

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Timings

• The Catacombs of Domitilla, one of the most visited sites in the catacombs of Rome, Italy, are open from Monday to Sunday.

• Operating hours: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM and 2:00 PM–5:00 PM.

• The site is closed every Tuesday and on major religious holidays.

• Final entry is usually 30 minutes before closing, so plan accordingly.

 

Tickets & Tours

• Access to the Catacombs of Domitilla is available only via guided tours — solo visits are not permitted.

• Booking your catacombs tours in Rome online is highly recommended, especially during high season.

• Several combo tours include Domitilla along with the Capuchin Crypt, San Callisto, or San Clemente.

• Prices start around €10–€15 for basic tours; combo tours with transfers range from €40–€65.

• Choose an all-in-one ticket if you're looking to explore multiple Christian catacombs across Rome.

 

Best Time to Visit

• Early mornings (right at opening) or late afternoons are best to avoid crowds.

• Visit during the low season (September to November) for fewer tourists and cooler temperatures.

• Weekdays (especially Wednesday or Thursday) offer a quieter, more reflective experience.

• Domitilla is often considered the favorite catacomb in Rome by those seeking a less touristy, more immersive tour.

• If you're looking for the best catacombs in Rome to pair with it, San Callisto or Priscilla make great additions.

 

Getting There

• The catacombs location is in Via delle Sette Chiese, about 30 minutes from central Rome.

• Buses 714, 716, 160, and 30 stop near the site; check local schedules for real-time availability.

• Cycling via the Appian Way offers a scenic route to the catacombs of Domitilla.

• For added comfort, many tours include round-trip hotel transfers. This is ideal if you're planning a broader catacombs tour across multiple underground sites.