Why go
San Sebastiano is a useful choice when you want a catacomb whose story begins with the ground itself. The name came from the hollow in the Appian landscape, while earlier pozzolana workings and a pagan cemetery explain the layered use of the site before and alongside Christian burials. Pair it with the basilica above and the Appian Way, rather than trying to rush it between central museums.
What to look for
- The site’s name recalls the hollow landscape beside the Appian Way.
- Earlier pozzolana mines help explain the underground setting.
- It is among the few Christian burial places described as having remained accessible over time.
The full story
San Sebastiano is a useful choice when you want a catacomb whose story begins with the ground itself. The name came from the hollow in the Appian landscape, while earlier pozzolana workings and a pagan cemetery explain the layered use of the site before and alongside Christian burials. Pair it with the basilica above and the Appian Way, rather than trying to rush it between central museums. The site’s name recalls the hollow landscape beside the Appian Way. Earlier pozzolana mines help explain the underground setting. It is among the few Christian burial places described as having remained accessible over time. Combine the catacomb with San Sebastiano fuori le mura and a walk on the Appian Way. Expect confined underground spaces and uneven surfaces. Confirm current visits before leaving the centre.
Useful to know
- Combine the catacomb with San Sebastiano fuori le mura and a walk on the Appian Way.
- Expect confined underground spaces and uneven surfaces.
- Confirm current visits before leaving the centre.