What are Catacombs?
Catacombs (plural of catacomb) are subterranean passageways and chambers beneath the surface of the earth, typically used as cemeteries from the 4th century onwards. They were exploited by the Romans primarily for burial purposes, but also for other functions such as housing refugees and criminals, and as storage for goods and produce. The Catacombs of Rome are the most famous and extensive in the world, with more than 60 miles of subterranean passageways.
Historical significance of Catacombs
A visit to the Catacombs of Rome is a plunge into the bowels of the earth, and a descent into the history of the city. The catacombs are burial grounds, and they are also repositories of art and culture. The first Christians in Rome were persecuted, and they had to bury their dead in secret. The catacombs were their only refuge, and they began to use them as places of worship. The Christian catacombs were grottoes, natural caves that were enlarged and modified for burial purposes. The walls are covered with paintings and frescoes, including some of the earliest images of Jesus Christ.
Underground art gallery
Did you know that Rome has an underground art gallery? It’s true! In fact, the city is home to a network of catacombs that date back to the 2nd century AD. These subterranean passageways were originally used as burial grounds, but they have since been turned into a tourist attraction. The catacombs are quite popular with visitors, but there are some secrets about them that most people don’t know. For starters, the majority of the art on display is religious in nature. There are also several sections of the underground Catacombs Rome that remain closed to the public. And finally, only a small number of people have been allowed to tour the underground art gallery in its entirety. So if you’re planning a trip to Rome, be sure to add the catacombs to your list of things to see!
Classless burials
One of the most interesting aspects of the catacombs of Rome is the fact that they were used for classless burials. In ancient Rome, death was a deeply class-based affair. People of different classes were buried in different places, and often markers and tombs reflected this division. The catacombs offered a unique opportunity to break from these conventions. They provided a space where people of all classes could be buried together. This egalitarian attitude is evident in the catacombs’ design, which is simple and unassuming.
Underground worship
When it comes to underground worship, catacombs in Rome were the go-to destination. Early Christians sought refuge in these dark and dreary tunnels, and they soon became a place of worship. The first Christians were persecuted for their beliefs, so they had to find ways to worship in secret. Catacombs in Rome were the perfect place for that because they were dark, hidden and largely abandoned. You can still see some of the early Christian artwork and symbols in the catacombs today.
Every year several people disappear in the Catacombs
It’s no secret that Rome’s Catacombs are eerie, dark and often teeming with myths and legends. Unfortunately, it’s also home to something far more sinister: people disappearing every year. The Catacombs of Rome are a vast, underground network of tunnels that were once used as burial grounds for the city’s deceased. Today, they’re a popular tourist attraction—but they’re also famed for being a place where people disappear without a trace. In fact, every year several people vanish without a trace in the Catacombs, and their whereabouts remain unknown. Some believe that they’re abducted by underground creatures or demons, while others say they get lost in the labyrinth of tunnels. Whatever the case may be, it’s definitely not a place to venture into alone!
Catacombs are also used as cellars these days
Catacombs have been used for a variety of purposes over the years. Aside from being used as tombs, they were also turned into quarries, Christian places of worship, and even storage cellars. There are even stories of catacombs being used to store wine and other food items. In fact, some locals still use the catacombs as wine cellars today!
Never-ending tunnels
Catacombs Rome are a never-ending network of tunnels that go on for miles. In fact, there are so many secret passageways and hidden chambers that even the Vatican has lost track of some of them. If you’re feeling brave enough, make your way through the eerie darkness and see for yourself just how far the catacombs go. Just be careful—some parts are in pretty bad condition, and there’s always the possibility of getting lost. You can visit by selecting any of the best Italy day tours providers.
Saintly burials
Contrary to what most people believe, the catacombs of Rome were not exclusively used to bury the dead. In fact, many of the catacombs were also used for burials of saints. This is because the early Christians believed that it was important to bury their martyrs near Rome so that they could be close to the city of God. As a result, many of the catacombs are home to some of the most highly decorated tombs and burial chapels in all of Rome.
