Catacomb of Priscilla

Rome, Italy

The Catacomb of Priscilla on the Via Salaria was used for Christian burials from the late 2nd century through the 4th century. This catacomb, according to tradition, is named after the wife of the Consul Manius Acilius Glabrio; he is said to have become a Christian and was killed on the orders of Domitian. Some of the walls and ceilings display fine decorations illustrating Biblical scenes.

The modern entrance to the catacomb is on the Via Salaria through the cloister of the monastery of the Benedictines of Priscilla. The Catacombs of Priscilla are divided into three principal areas: an arenarium, a cryptoportico from a large Roman villa, and the underground burial area of the ancient Roman family, the Acilius Glabrio.

The wall paintings in this catacomb include images of saints and early Christian symbols, such as the painting reproduced in Giovanni Gaetano Bottari's folio of 1754, where the Good Shepherd is depicted as feeding the lambs, with a crowing cock on His right and left hand.

Particularly notable is the 'Greek Chapel' (Capella Greca), a square chamber with an arch which contains 3rd century frescoes generally interpreted to be Old and New Testament scenes, including the Fractio Panis.

The Priscilla catacombs may contain the oldest known Marian paintings, from the early third century. Mary is shown with Jesus on her lap, and the catacombs may have a depiction of the Annunciation, though the latter has been disputed.

Papal tombs

On account of the fact that seven early popes and many martyrs were buried in the cemetery, it was known as the 'Queen of the Catacombs' in antiquity. Two popes were buried in the Catacomb of Priscilla: Pope Marcellinus (296 - 304) and Pope Marcellus I (308 - 309).

Alleged relics of Popes Sylvester I, Stephen I, and Dionysius were exhumed and enshrined beneath the high altar of San Martino ai Monti, in the Esquiline area of Rome. Pope Sylvester I was likely originally buried in San Martino ai Monti, although some sources say his remains were transferred there. An unidentified papal sarcophagus discovered during the demolition of Old Saint Peter's Basilica was attributed to Sylvester I and moved to Nonantola Abbey, near the altar that contains the remains of Pope Adrian III. Other sources describe a combination of Sylvester I and Vigilius in an altar in St. Peter's.

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Address

Via Salaria 430, Rome, Italy
See all sites in Rome

Details

Founded: 2nd century AD
Category: Cemeteries, mausoleums and burial places in Italy

More Information

en.wikipedia.org
www.catacombepriscilla.com

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

Interesting Sites Nearby


Colosseum (4,6 km)
Sistine Chapel (5,4 km)
Arch of Constantine (4,7 km)
St. Peter's Basilica (5,5 km)
Basilica of Santa Maria in Ara Coeli (4,5 km)
Altare della Patria (4,4 km)
St. Peter's Square (5,2 km)
Pantheon (4,3 km)
Vatican Historical Museum (5,2 km)


Villa d'Este (24,1 km)

User Reviews

Ruben Richardson (46 days ago)
I don't like group tours when traveling. But... wow...this, this was an amazing thing to behold. The history and savagery of it all. Our tour guide Leonardo was funny and had an answer for every question asked, even on topics oustide the catacombs, like why Italians eat ice cream with one hand. It's worth the price especially on a hot day as it's pretty chilly under ground and it's a welcome get away from all the other busy attractions. No foto's allowed.
Lorenzo Pagliacci (50 days ago)
The entrance is a green small door on the side walk. Beautiful tour. Very informative. Catacombs are incredibly suggestive and perfectly preserved. The tour is 50 minutes and gives you an overview of the history. Tunnels are amazing and I recommend the visit to anyone wanting to have a glimpse at Rome catacombs.
travelswithadiplomat (2 months ago)
Fascinating place accessed via an old monastery. Tour only, about 45minutes. If you are at all claustrophobic there will be several moments of unease, usually when you pause in a passage. But worth it and the walks around the local park opposite are beautiful. Photography not permitted. Unfortunately though, there will always be a disrespectful tourist in the group.
Dasha P. (2 months ago)
Great place. U can learn more aspects of Roman history. U can see 1 st chistian frescoes. 8 euros. Taking photos are not allowed. Everything else is good.
John Allen (3 months ago)
Excellent tour led by a knowledgeable and thoughtful guide. Pictures not allowed out of respect for the dead. Especially of note is the cubiculum of the veiled lady and the first known depiction of Mary, the mother of Jesus.
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In the early Middle Ages the Roman city gates were no longer used for their original function and their stones were taken and reused for other buildings. Also iron and lead braces were broken out of the walls of the Porta Nigra for reuse. Traces of this destruction are still clearly visible on the north side of the gate.

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