Catacombs of Priscilla (Earliest Image of Mary)
430 Via Salaria Roma
From Martyrs to the Mother of God—Where the First Christians Honored the Mother of God
The Catacombs of Priscilla, among Rome’s oldest Christian burial sites, bear witness to centuries of faith and martyrdom. Founded by the noblewoman Priscilla, this vast necropolis stretches 13 kilometers, housing the remains of 40,000 early Christians, including the martyrs Felix, Philip, and their mother, St. Felicitas. With numerous popes interred here, the site earned the title "Queen of the Catacombs."
One of its greatest treasures is the earliest known depiction of the Virgin Mary, found within its frescoed chambers. The Greek Chapel, adorned with intricate 2nd-century paintings, offers a glimpse into the artistic and theological expressions of early Christian Rome.
Rediscovered in the 16th century, the catacombs remain a place of pilgrimage and historical fascination, where visitors encounter the legacy of saints, martyrs, and the enduring devotion of the first believers.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We turn our hearts to the Catacombs of Priscilla, a sacred testament to the faith and resilience of early Christians. As we honor the memory of the martyrs Felix, Philip, and St. Felicitas, may their courage inspire us to stand firm in our own beliefs and witness to Your love.
Within these ancient chambers, we find the earliest depiction of the Virgin Mary, a powerful reminder of the enduring faith and devotion that has been passed down through the ages. May this image inspire us to seek Mary's intercession and guidance in our own lives.
In the Greek Chapel, adorned with intricate 2nd-century paintings, we glimpse the artistic and theological expressions of early Christian Rome. May these treasures strengthen our faith and deepen our understanding of the rich heritage we inherit.
As we reflect on the title "Queen of the Catacombs," bestowed upon this sacred site, we celebrate the legacy of saints, martyrs, and the first believers who kept the faith alive. Grant us the grace to honor their memory by living as witnesses to Your love and truth in the world. Amen.
Recommended Nearby:
Basilica of San Clemente
An early 12th Century church that was built over a pre-existing 4th Century church and a previous pagan temple, the Basilica of San Clemente is dedicated to the fourth ponfiff, Pope St. Clement I, who was martyred in Crimea and whose relics have been placed under the main altar.
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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