Catacombs of San Callisto, Rome
Must-SeeThe most important catacombs in Rome — 20 km of tunnels, the Crypt of the Popes, and early Christian frescoes. Guided tours only.
Catacombs of San Gennaro, Naples
Must-SeeNaples' most impressive catacombs — two levels with frescoes and mosaics. Excellent guided tours run by a local cooperative. Rione Sanita district.
Catacombs of Priscilla, Rome
Must-SeeThe "Queen of the Catacombs" — the oldest known image of the Madonna and Child. Run by Benedictine nuns. Less crowded than San Callisto.
Catacombe dei Cappuccini, Palermo
Must-SeeNot ancient but extraordinary — 8,000 mummified bodies displayed in their original clothing. Including Rosalia Lombardo, the "sleeping beauty" (1920). Haunting.
Napoli Sotterranea
Must-See40m below the streets — Greek quarries, Roman aqueducts, and WWII air-raid shelters. A 2-hour guided tour through 2,400 years of underground Naples.
Where to start
Start with the must-see examples, then explore the hidden gems. Italy's italian catacombs reward the curious visitor.