Rome - Catacombs of Domitilla Catacombe di Domitilla

The Catacombs of Domitilla are among the most impressive of the Roman catacombs, the underground burial-places which were used by pagans as well as Christians (though the more famous and wealthier Romans might prefer to be buried beside one of the great trunk roads leading out of Rome). Domitilla was a descendant of Vespasian who, after her conversion to Christianity, allowed Christians to be buried in the family tomb.

Christians met to celebrate the commemorative day of notable members of their community; at their gravesides, but not always in the catacombs. In the Catacombs of Domitilla is the basilica of SS Nereus and Achilleus, an underground church of highly impressive effect with its columns and marble fragments. From the basilica visitors enter the catacomb passages with their tomb chambers and wall recesses. There are well-preserved wall paintings on Christian themes.