Catacombs of St. Sebastian
136 Via Appia Antica Roma
The Catacombs of St. Sebastian—Where Ancient Graffiti Tells the Story of Faithful Pilgrims
The Catacombs of St. Sebastian, once a pagan burial site, became a sacred Christian necropolis in the 2nd century, originally dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul. In the 4th century, the site was renamed in honor of Saint Sebastian, who was martyred in 298 A.D. and laid to rest here.
Saint Sebastian, a Roman soldier and Christian convert, survived an initial execution attempt before being put to death by order of Emperor Diocletian. His relics remain enshrined in the crypt of San Sebastiano, a site of deep veneration.
Among the catacomb’s artistic treasures is the cubicle of Jonah, adorned with 4th-century frescoes, and a series of pagan mausoleums later repurposed by early Christians. The walls bear the graffiti of pilgrims, testifying to centuries of devotion.
Above the catacombs stands the Basilica of Saint Sebastian, originally built by Emperor Constantine, marking this place as one of the most revered sites in Rome’s Christian history.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We gather in reflection upon the Catacombs of St. Sebastian, a sacred Christian necropolis transformed from its pagan origins. As we honor the memory of Saint Sebastian, a Roman soldier and devoted Christian, may his courage and faithfulness inspire us to stand firm in our own beliefs.
Within these hallowed tunnels, we remember the steadfast devotion of early Christians who repurposed these spaces for worship and burial. May the frescoes and graffiti left by pilgrims remind us of the enduring faith that has been passed down through generations.
In the crypt of San Sebastiano, where his relics are enshrined, we find a powerful testament to the resilience of the early Church. May we draw strength from Saint Sebastian's example, trusting in Your guidance even in the face of trials and persecution.
As we reflect on the Basilica of Saint Sebastian, built by Emperor Constantine, we celebrate the transformation of this site into a beacon of Christian hope and history. Grant us the grace to honor this legacy by living as witnesses to Your love and truth in the world.
Amen.
Recommended Nearby:
Catacombs of St. Callixtus
Explore the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, Rome’s ancient 3rd-century Christian cemetery sprawling over 15 hectares underground. This vast network, known as the "Little Vatican," is the final resting place of sixteen popes, countless martyrs, and half a million early Christians.
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.
Stay Connected:
Sign up and get weekly updates with new locations, itineraries and videos.