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Catacombs of Priscilla Tour

What You’ll See Inside

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Tombs of the Early Christians

The catacombs house over 40,000 tombs, including those of martyrs, popes, and noble Roman families. Notably, the ossuary of the Acilii Glabriones, a high-ranking Roman family, rests here. This sacred underground complex includes the crypts of Popes Marcellinus and Peter, and is considered one of the most spiritually significant sites in the catacombs of Rome, Italy. The presence of Saint Priscilla and the nickname “Queen of the Catacombs” reflect its deep historical and religious value.

 

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Early Christian Frescoes

 The walls of the Priscilla Catacombs are adorned with well-preserved frescoes that date back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries. Among them is the earliest known depiction of the Virgin Mary breastfeeding Jesus. Other scenes include Noah's Ark, the Resurrection of Lazarus, and Eucharistic meals. These frescoes are invaluable visual records of early Christian worship, making this one of the best catacombs to visit in Rome for art historians and religious scholars.

 

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The Greek Chapel

Located within the catacombs is the Greek Chapel, a 3rd-century funerary room decorated in Pompeian style. Named after two Greek inscriptions, it features three sarcophagus niches and a ceremonial dining counter. Frescoes in this space portray biblical scenes and communal rituals like Fractio Panis (Breaking of Bread), offering insight into early Eucharistic practices and possibly female roles in early Christianity.

 

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The Cubiculum of the Veiled Woman

This chamber is named for a mysterious fresco of a veiled woman surrounded by scenes that may depict key moments of her life, including marriage and prayer. Some scholars interpret the woman as a symbol of early female leadership within the Church. It is one of the most debated and visually striking parts of the Catacombs of Priscilla, highlighting the site’s cultural and theological depth.

 

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Underground Experience

Unlike the larger catacombs along the Appian Way, Priscilla offers a more intimate underground experience in Rome. Narrower tunnels and quieter surroundings make it ideal for those looking for reflection and less tourist-heavy exploration. It's also one of the lesser-known gems among the crypts of Rome.

 

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Discover the Catacombs of Priscilla

    • The Catacombs of Priscilla date back to the 2nd century AD and were originally used by wealthy Roman Christian families for underground burial.

    • Known as the “Queen of the Catacombs,” this site is considered one of the best catacombs in Rome for its preservation and religious art.

    • Located beneath the Via Salaria, rather than the more common Appian Way catacombs, it offers a quieter, less touristy alternative to larger sites.

    • The catacombs house the tombs of martyrs, bishops, and noblewomen, making it a deeply significant site in Christian Rome.

    • One of the most remarkable features is the Greek Chapel, decorated with stunning 3rd-century frescoes — including one of the earliest known images of the Virgin Mary.

    • Visitors exploring underground in Rome will find that Priscilla offers an intimate and immersive experience, compared to the more extensive Catacombs of St. Callixtus or San Sebastiano.

    • The Priscilla Catacombs span two levels and include multiple galleries, cubicles, and arcosolia (arched tombs) used over centuries by Roman Christians.

    • Because of its rich artwork and early Christian symbolism, it’s often highlighted in catacombs tours in Rome focused on art history and religious heritage.

    • Although not as large as the catacombs along the Appian Way, its cultural and theological significance makes it a favorite catacomb in Rome for scholars and pilgrims alike.

    • Today, the site is maintained and accessible through guided tours, helping preserve the sacred space while offering insight into Roman catacomb architecture and devotion.


     

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Plan Your Visit

Opening Hours & Tickets

• Catacombs of Priscilla are typically open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM

• Closed on Mondays, public holidays, and during select annual breaks — always check in advance

• Entry is only allowed via guided tours, which last around 30 minutes

• Ticket prices range from €10–€13, with discounts for students and groups

• Booking online is strongly recommended to secure your time slot

 

How to Get There

• Located on Via Salaria, north-east of Rome’s city centre

• By metro: Take Line B to Libia Station, then walk or take a short taxi ride

• By bus: Bus lines 92, 310, or 630 stop near Via Salaria, a few minutes from the entrance

• If you're exploring Catacombs San Sebastiano Roma or Catacombs of St Callixtus on the Appian Way, pair your trip with Priscilla for a full underground experience

• Wear walking shoes and bring a bottle of water — surfaces can be uneven and humid inside

 

Accessibility

• The catacombs are not wheelchair accessible due to narrow staircases and uneven terrain

• Not recommended for visitors with mobility issues, claustrophobia, or respiratory conditions

• Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult

• Restroom and refreshment facilities are located outside the site — plan ahead before your visit

 

Nearby Attractions

• Villa Ada Savoia: A beautiful park nearby, perfect for a peaceful walk after your underground tour

• Catacombs of San Sebastiano Roma and Catacombs of St Callixtus: Located on the Appian Way, these can be visited on the same day if planned well

• Sant’Agnese fuori le mura: Another important catacomb site close by with a beautiful 7th-century basilica

• Mausoleum of Santa Costanza: Famous for its circular design and early Christian mosaics

 

The Catacombs of Priscilla are an ancient underground Christian burial site in Rome, dating back to the 2nd century AD. They are known for their early frescoes and significance in early Christian history.

 

The catacombs extend over two underground levels, covering approximately 13 kilometres of passageways. They include thousands of burial niches, family chambers, and decorated chapels.

 

Priscilla was a Roman noblewoman and early Christian believed to have donated the land for the catacombs. She may also be buried within the complex, which carries her name in recognition.

 

Yes, the site is believed to include the tombs of Popes Marcellinus and Marcellus, as well as Christian martyrs and members of prominent Roman families like the Acilii Glabriones.

 

Yes, but only through guided tours. Visitors cannot enter independently, and tours are offered at set times with multilingual guides available.

 

Tickets can be purchased online through authorised tour providers or at the entrance (if available). However, advance booking is strongly advised due to limited tour slots.

 

Photography is strictly prohibited inside the catacombs to protect the delicate frescoes and maintain the sacred nature of the space.

 

Unfortunately, no. The site includes narrow staircases, low ceilings, and uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs or visitors with serious mobility concerns.