Catacombs of Saints Marcellino and Pietro: inside Rome’s forgotten catacombs few travelers ever see

A short distance from the urban chaos of Rome, ten meters below the street level, there still exists an ancient and mysterious world: the Catacombs of San Marcellino and Pietro, which are not only an archaeological site but an immersive experience that combines primitive Christian art and faith. Join us to discover what makes this place special, what to look for during your visit, and why it's worth exploring the lesser-known depths of Rome.

When thinking of Rome, the Colosseum, the Vatican, the Trevi Fountain, and perhaps even the famous catacombs of San Callisto or San Sebastiano immediately come to mind. But there is a hidden place, far from the most crowded tourist circuits, that awaits to be discovered by those who love authenticity and mystery: the Catacombs of San Marcellino and Pietro. Descending into these ancient underground corridors is not just a journey through Christian history: it is an intense, evocative, almost spiritual emotion. That is why more and more discerning travelers, in search of authentic experiences, are beginning to include this unusual place in their Roman itinerary.

Rome is home to more than sixty catacombs, but only a few are open to the public. Among them, the Catacombs of San Marcellino and Pietro remain an incredible hidden treasure, far from the main tourist routes. And that’s exactly what makes them perfect for travelers seeking a quieter and truly unforgettable experience.

Founded in the 4th century A.D., the catacombs are named after Saints Marcellinus and Peter, two Christian martyrs venerated since ancient times. Inside, there are over 17,000 burials, spread across an extensive network of underground galleries carved into tuff where small funeral loculi were created directly in the walls.

These still preserve faded frescoes, Christian symbols, inscriptions in Latin, and niches that once contained the remains of men, women, and children.

Here you can touch the ancient roots of Christianity firsthand, at a time when this new faith was heavily persecuted. The faithful had to bury their loved ones in hidden places like this, located along the ancient Via Labicana, now renamed Via Casilina, just outside the city walls.

A truly unique place ,not to be missed by anyone visiting the Eternal City.

If you want to get around using public transport, you can easily reach the catacombs, they are located in the eastern part of Rome, on Via Casilina, within the monumental complex of Tor Pignattara, in the popular district of Tor Pignattara. Here you can also find the mausoleum of Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine. Although they are not in the historic center, they are easily reachable by metro or public transport. It is precisely this "off the beaten path" location that makes them even more fascinating: an opportunity to see a different Rome.

The visit to the Catacombs of San Marcellino and Pietro is always guided and allows you to explore all the underground areas. How much does a guided tour cost? We do not know, I recommend checking directly on the official website of the archaeological site. The most interesting points of the Catacombs of San Marcellino and Pietro are: the early Christian frescoes, religious symbols, and portraits of the deceased, still visible after centuries; the tombs of the martyrs in the place where San Marcellino and Pietro were buried, venerated by the first Christians; the Cubiculum of Elena, a small richly decorated funeral chamber; the Mausoleum of Sant’Elena, an imposing circular structure visible on the surface, which is part of the visiting route.

Address: Via Casilina 641, Rome

How to get there by public transport? Metro C + bus or walk

Visits: Only with a guide and by reservation

Duration: About 60 minutes

We suggest to you shoes and a light sweatshirt, even in summer.

Are the Catacombs of San Marcellino and Pietro suitable for children or people with claustrophobia? They can be a fascinating visit for adults passionate about history and archaeology, but there are some important things to consider before bringing young children or those who suffer from claustrophobia.

The visit might not be ideal for very young children, mainly because the catacombs are underground spaces with narrow corridors and low lighting.

For people with claustrophobia, the catacombs are underground areas with low ceilings, tight passages, and dark environments, which can be challenging or anxiety-inducing. The visit might not be recommended, or at least should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. It’s important to consider your own tolerance for confined spaces and, if possible, ask for information when booking or speak with the guide.

Can photographs be taken? Inside the catacombs is usually restricted to preserve delicate frescoes and inscriptions, so check the rules before your visit.

Bring a small flashlight only if permitted by your guide; most tours provide sufficient lighting.

The site is not wheelchair accessible due to narrow and uneven tunnels, so keep this in mind when planning your visit.

Today, after centuries of neglect, thanks to significant restorations, archaeological excavations, and guided tours, these ancient Christian catacombs, among the lesser-known in Rome, open their doors to the most curious travelers. Spending at least two days visiting the Catacombs of San Marcellino and Pietro and other significant monuments of the Eternal City is undoubtedly a unique and deeply moving experience.

These special places offer the opportunity to experience firsthand the fascinating history of Paleochristian Rome and its archaeological heritage. A must-see for those who wish to discover the underground city. Rome is waiting for you!