About Catacombs Of Priscilla

The Catacombs of Priscilla, located in Rome, is one of the oldest and most significant Christian burial sites in the city. They are named after the woman who donated the land for the catacombs to be built and are also known as the Queen of the Catacombs. The catacombs were used for Christian burials from the second through the fifth centuries AD, and contain the remains of many early Christian martyrs and popes. They are home to an extensive network of tunnels and chambers that extend over 13 kilometres and include a variety of burial styles, such as loculi, arcosolia, and cubicula.


One of the most famous features of the Catacombs of Priscilla is the stunning frescoes that decorate many of the walls and ceilings. These paintings depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments, as well as images of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints and martyrs. Some of the most notable frescoes include the Greek Chapel, the Cubiculum of the Veiled Woman, and the Crypt of the Popes. The Catacombs of Priscilla also contains a number of impressive archaeological finds, including several sarcophagi, ancient Christian symbols, and inscriptions in Greek and Latin. The catacombs were rediscovered in the 16th century and have been open to visitors ever since. Today, visitors can explore the catacombs and admire the beautiful frescoes and other historic artefacts. The Catacombs of Priscilla are a fascinating glimpse into the early days of Christianity in Rome, and a testament to the enduring legacy of the faith.


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History
History

The Catacombs of Priscilla has a long and fascinating history that spans over two thousand years. They were first excavated in the 2nd century AD and were used as a Christian burial sites for several centuries. Over time, the catacombs became an important pilgrimage site for Christians and were eventually rediscovered in the 16th century.


Also Read: Catacombs Of San Sebastiano

Layout And Architecture
Layout And Architecture

The Catacombs of Priscilla are a vast network of tunnels and chambers that span over 13 kilometres. They are divided into four levels, each with its own unique features and decorations. The catacombs include a variety of burial styles, including loculi, arcosolia, and cubicula, which are niches cut into the walls of the tunnels.


Suggested Read: Catacombs Tunnels

Frescoes And Decorations
Frescoes And Decorations

One of the most impressive features of the Catacombs of Priscilla is the intricate frescoes that adorn many of the walls and ceilings. These paintings date back to the 3rd and 4th centuries AD and depict a variety of religious scenes and figures, including Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints and martyrs. Many of the frescoes are remarkably well-preserved and provide a unique glimpse into early Christian art and iconography.


Must Read: The Catacombs of San Sebastiano Guided Tour Tickets

Crypt Of The Popes
Crypt Of The Popes

The Crypt of the Popes is one of the most significant areas of the Catacombs of Priscilla. It is believed to be the burial site of several early popes, including Marcellinus, Marcellus, and Sylvester I. The crypt is decorated with intricate frescoes and mosaics, including a stunning depiction of Christ as the Good Shepherd.


Must Read: History Of Roman Catacombs

The Greek Chapel
The Greek Chapel

The Greek Chapel is another notable feature of the Catacombs of Priscilla. It is decorated with a series of frescoes that depict scenes from the New Testament, including the story of Jonah and the whale. The chapel is also home to several inscriptions in Greek, which provide valuable insights into the early Christian community in Rome.


Also Read: Facts About The Catacombs

Christian Symbols
Christian Symbols

The Catacombs of Priscilla contains a wealth of Christian symbols and inscriptions, including the fish, which was an early Christian symbol, and the Chi-Rho, which represents the first two letters of Christ's name in Greek. There are also numerous inscriptions in Latin and Greek that provide valuable historical and cultural information about the early Christian community in Rome.


Must Read: Catacombs Of San Callisto

Book Catacombs Tours

Priscilla Catacomb: English Guided Tour
i4.5 Stars| Rated By 25+ Customers
Priscilla Catacomb English Guided Tour
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Starts at
19.5
Saving 20%
15.6
/per adult
Highlights
  • Experience the rich history and cultural heritage of Rome with a visit to the Priscilla Catacombs

  • Admire the intricate frescoes and artwork within the catacombs on a guided tour

  • Uncover the secrets of the catacombs and the people who were buried there

  • Uncover the secrets of the catacombs and the people who were buried in the underground tombs

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Must Know Before You Go
  • The tour is not accessible to visitors in wheelchairs or with severe motor disabilities.
  • As this comes under holy places, guests must dress appropriately (Shoulders and thighs covered).
  • All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival.
  • ID proof is mandatory for each individual guest at the time of arrival.
  • Participants are not allowed to carry any sharp object, lighter, luggage bag, alcohol, knife, etc.
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Priscilla Catacomb: Italian Guided Tour
i4.5 Stars| Rated By 25+ Customers
Priscilla Catacomb Italian Guided Tour
highlightGuide
highlightMobile Voucher
View More Details
Starts at
19.5
Saving 20%
15.6
/per adult
Highlights
  • Experience the rich history and cultural heritage of Rome with a visit to the Priscilla Catacombs

  • Admire the intricate frescoes and artwork within the catacombs on a guided tour

  • Uncover the secrets of the catacombs and the people who were buried there

  • Uncover the secrets of the catacombs and the people who were buried in the underground tombs

Scroll down to read more
Must Know Before You Go
  • The tour is not accessible to visitors in wheelchairs or with severe motor disabilities.
  • As this comes under holy places, guests must dress appropriately (Shoulders and thighs covered).
  • All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival.
  • ID proof is mandatory for each individual guest at the time of arrival.
  • Participants are not allowed to carry any sharp object, lighter, luggage bag, alcohol, knife, etc.
Scroll down to read more
Priscilla Catacomb: Spanish Guided Tour
i4.5 Stars| Rated By 25+ Customers
Priscilla Catacomb Spanish Guided Tour
highlightGuide
highlightMobile Voucher
View More Details
Starts at
19.5
Saving 20%
15.6
/per adult
Highlights
  • Experience the rich history and cultural heritage of Rome with a visit to the Priscilla Catacombs

  • Admire the intricate frescoes and artwork within the catacombs on a guided tour

  • Uncover the secrets of the catacombs and the people who were buried there

  • Uncover the secrets of the catacombs and the people who were buried in the underground tombs

Scroll down to read more
Must Know Before You Go
  • The tour is not accessible to visitors in wheelchairs or with severe motor disabilities.
  • As this comes under holy places, guests must dress appropriately (Shoulders and thighs covered).
  • All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival.
  • ID proof is mandatory for each individual guest at the time of arrival.
  • Participants are not allowed to carry any sharp object, lighter, luggage bag, alcohol, knife, etc.
Scroll down to read more

FAQs

What is the history of the Catacombs of Priscilla?

    The Catacombs of Priscilla are one of the largest and most ancient catacombs in Rome. They are named after Priscilla, a noblewoman who converted to Christianity in the 1st century AD and donated her land for the burial of early Christian martyrs. The catacombs were in use until the 5th century AD and contain the remains of thousands of Christians, including many martyrs.

What is the layout of the Catacombs of Priscilla?

What can visitors see in the Catacombs of Priscilla?

How was the Catacombs of Priscilla used in ancient times?

Are the Catacombs of Priscilla open to the public?

What is the significance of the Catacombs of Priscilla?

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