Step underground into one of Rome's most remarkable early Christian sites with the Catacomb of Priscilla — known as the Queen of the Catacombs for its extraordinary collection of ancient frescoes, 40,000 tombs, and the burial sites of seven early popes. A mandatory guided tour leads you through winding underground tunnels, a beautifully frescoed Greek Chapel, and chambers containing some of the oldest Christian artwork in the world, including the earliest known image of the Virgin Mary.
Key Highlights
- Explore 40,000 ancient tombs spread across two underground levels on a mandatory 45-minute guided tour in English, Italian, or Spanish
- Admire the Greek Chapel, adorned with some of the oldest and best-preserved early Christian frescoes in existence
- Discover the world's earliest known depiction of the Virgin Mary breastfeeding the Christ Child — a masterpiece of ancient Christian art
- Visit the burial sites of seven early popes, martyrs, and saints in one of Rome's most sacred and historically significant underground sites
- Uncover the Hypogeum of the Acili — an ancient underground tomb complex with inscriptions from one of Rome's most powerful noble families
About Catacomb of Priscilla Ticket
The Catacomb of Priscilla on the ancient Via Salaria is widely regarded as one of the most important and atmospheric of all Rome's underground catacombs, earning the nickname Regina Catacumbarum — Queen of the Catacombs — for its extraordinary concentration of early Christian art, papal burials, and martyrs' tombs. The site spans two levels and contains approximately 40,000 tombs dating from the 2nd to the 5th century AD, carved into the soft tufa rock beneath the quiet Villa Ada park north of the city centre.
Every visit is guided — and the guided tour is not merely a requirement but a genuine enhancement. Expert guides from the Pontifical Commission of Sacred Archaeology lead small groups through the narrow tunnels, pointing out carved tomb niches, early Christian symbols, including the fish and the lamb, and explaining the stories of the notable figures buried here. The undisputed highlights are the Greek Chapel (Cappella Greca) — a beautifully preserved underground chamber whose walls and arched ceiling are covered in extraordinarily detailed frescoes depicting Old and New Testament scenes — and the image of the Virgin Mary and Child, widely recognised by scholars as the earliest surviving depiction of this subject in all of Christian art.
The catacomb also contains the Hypogeum of the Acili — an ancient cistern converted into an underground tomb complex by one of Rome's most powerful aristocratic families — and a small museum within the Villa Ada grounds housing hundreds of sarcophagi fragments discovered during excavations. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and is conducted in English, Italian, and Spanish. Book your Catacomb of Priscilla ticket now on Thrillark and save up to 13%.
Every visit is guided — and the guided tour is not merely a requirement but a genuine enhancement. Expert guides from the Pontifical Commission of Sacred Archaeology lead small groups through the narrow tunnels, pointing out carved tomb niches, early Christian symbols, including the fish and the lamb, and explaining the stories of the notable figures buried here. The undisputed highlights are the Greek Chapel (Cappella Greca) — a beautifully preserved underground chamber whose walls and arched ceiling are covered in extraordinarily detailed frescoes depicting Old and New Testament scenes — and the image of the Virgin Mary and Child, widely recognised by scholars as the earliest surviving depiction of this subject in all of Christian art.
The catacomb also contains the Hypogeum of the Acili — an ancient cistern converted into an underground tomb complex by one of Rome's most powerful aristocratic families — and a small museum within the Villa Ada grounds housing hundreds of sarcophagi fragments discovered during excavations. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and is conducted in English, Italian, and Spanish. Book your Catacomb of Priscilla ticket now on Thrillark and save up to 13%.
Inclusions
- Entry to the Catacomb of Priscilla with a 45-minute guided tour
- Expert guide in English, Italian, or Spanish
- Access to all underground levels, the Greek Chapel, the Hypogeum of the Acili, and the tomb corridors
- Access to the on-site museum with sarcophagi fragments
Exclusions
- Personal expenses
- Transport
- Food and beverages
Insiders' Tips
Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip as the underground tunnels have uneven ancient surfaces that can be slippery. Dress in layers — the catacombs maintain a constant underground temperature that feels cool even in summer. Arrive at the ticket office at least 10 minutes before your scheduled tour time, as guides depart on time and latecomers may miss their session.
Additional Information
Operating Hours
- 9:00 am - 05:00 pm
- Children under 7 years are free of charge.
- Due to the specific nature of the sites, there are specific limitations for visitors with disabilities.
- Wear appropriate shoes for an uneven floor and suitable clothes for the basement's temperatures.
- No photos or videos allowed.
Cancellation Policy
- No Cancellation and Non-refundable
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Catacomb of Priscilla in Rome?
The Catacomb of Priscilla is one of Rome's oldest and most significant early Christian burial sites, nicknamed the Queen of the Catacombs and containing approximately 40,000 tombs, the burial sites of seven early popes, and some of the earliest Christian frescoes in existence. All visits are conducted as mandatory guided tours of approximately 45 minutes in English, Italian, or Spanish.
Why is the Catacomb of Priscilla called the Queen of the Catacombs?
The Catacomb of Priscilla earned this title due to its extraordinary concentration of significant burials, including seven early popes and numerous martyrs, alongside some of the most important early Christian artworks in the world. No other catacomb in Rome combines such an exceptional range of papal tombs, ancient frescoes, and archaeological significance in a single site.
What is the oldest image of the Virgin Mary at the Catacomb of Priscilla?
The Greek Chapel within the Catacomb of Priscilla contains a fresco widely recognised by scholars as the earliest known depiction of the Virgin Mary breastfeeding the Christ Child, dating to the late 2nd or early 3rd century AD. It is one of the most significant works of early Christian art in existence and a compelling reason to visit this particular catacomb above others in Rome.
What is the Greek Chapel at the Catacomb of Priscilla?
The Greek Chapel, or Cappella Greca, is an underground burial chamber within the Catacomb of Priscilla whose walls and arched ceiling are covered in extraordinarily well-preserved frescoes depicting Old and New Testament scenes. It is the artistic and spiritual highlight of the entire guided tour and one of the finest examples of early Christian underground art anywhere in Italy.
Is photography allowed inside the Catacomb of Priscilla?
No, photography and filming of any kind are strictly prohibited throughout the entire catacomb, including in the Greek Chapel and all tunnel sections. Visitors should leave cameras and camera equipment in bags before entering the underground sections.
Is the Catacomb of Priscilla suitable for children?
Children under 7 enter completely free and older children generally find the guided tour engaging, particularly the Greek Chapel frescoes and the stories of ancient burials. Parents should note the catacomb involves narrow passages, uneven terrain, and low lighting, and is not recommended for children who are anxious in enclosed spaces.
What is the Hypogeum of the Acili at the Catacomb of Priscilla?
The Hypogeum of the Acili is an ancient cistern converted into an underground tomb complex by the noble Acilii Glabriones family, one of Rome's most powerful aristocratic dynasties and early converts to Christianity. Inscriptions from the family have been found and displayed in the on-site museum, providing a rare link between the Catacomb of Priscilla and Rome's imperial-era nobility.
How do I get to the Catacomb of Priscilla in Rome?
The Catacomb of Priscilla is at Via Salaria 430 in northern Rome, reachable by Bus 63 or 92 to the Villa Ada stop or Bus 86 or 310 to Via Salaria. It is not on the main tourist circuit of central Rome, so allowing at least 30 to 45 minutes travel time from the city centre is recommended.
What should I wear to visit the Catacomb of Priscilla?
Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip as the underground tunnels have uneven ancient surfaces, and bring a light layer as the underground temperature is consistently cool regardless of the season. Shoulders and knees should be covered as this is a sacred religious site, and all visitors are expected to dress and behave respectfully throughout.
Do I need to book Catacomb of Priscilla tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended, particularly for morning sessions and weekend visits when popular time slots fill quickly. Booking through Thrillark saves up to 13% on the standard rate with instant confirmation, and full refunds are available for cancellations made before 11:59 PM the day before your scheduled tour.
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