Catacombs of St. Callixtus
110/126 Via Appia Antica Roma
The Catacombs of St. Callixtus, known as the "Little Vatican", stand among Rome’s most significant early Christian cemeteries. Spanning 15 hectares, this vast 3rd-century burial network served as the final resting place for sixteen popes, countless martyrs, and nearly half a million Christians.
Within its labyrinthine passages lies the Crypt of the Popes, where the original Greek inscriptions still mark the tombs of nine pontiffs, preserving their memory in the dimly lit stone. Nearby, the Crypt of St. Cecilia honors the beloved patroness of music, whose fresco-adorned chamber once enshrined her relics. A marble statue, sculpted in the position of her discovery, remains as a poignant tribute to her martyrdom.
As visitors descend into these hallowed tunnels, they encounter some of Christianity’s earliest artistic expressions—painted symbols of faith, carved epitaphs, and ornate family tombs. The catacombs stand as a testament to the resilience of Rome’s first believers, whose faith endured beneath the very streets of the empire that once sought to silence them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We enter into reflection upon the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, a sacred testament to the faith and resilience of early Christians. As we walk through this vast burial network, we honor the memory of the sixteen popes, countless martyrs, and half a million believers who found their final resting place here.
In the Crypt of the Popes, where Greek inscriptions mark the tombs of nine pontiffs, we find inspiration in their leadership and devotion. May their enduring faith guide us as we seek to live out our own calling with courage and conviction.
We remember St. Cecilia, the patroness of music, whose fresco-adorned chamber and marble statue remind us of her steadfast love for You, even unto martyrdom. May her example inspire us to use our own gifts in service to Your kingdom.
As we encounter Christianity’s earliest artistic expressions within these sacred tunnels, may we be strengthened by the witness of those who kept the faith alive beneath the streets of an empire. Grant us the grace to live as they did, resilient and faithful, proclaiming Your truth with love and hope.
Amen.
Recommended Nearby:
Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme
This church holds, according to tradition, the relics of Christ's passion and death. Founded by Emperor Constantine, as noted in the Liber Pontificalis, a biography of Pope St. Sylvester I (314-335 A.D.), the church was dedicated to the Holy Cross during the Middle Ages.
See Also:
Rome - Catacombs on the Via Appia
The Catacombs are where early Christians used to bury their dead prior to the legalization of the Faith in 313 AD. The site featured in this video are the Domitilla Catacombs, but some others are also currently open to the public. In this video, Andreas Thonhauser offers insight into what you'll find while making a mysterious journey into the Roman and Christian underground.
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