Rome crypts and catacombs after-hours access

This unforgettable tour of the crypts and catacombs that lay under the modern city of Rome offers exclusive after-hours access to the Catacombs of Priscilla, taking you deeper into the unusual history of Rome. Visit the concealed side of this ancient city with an itinerary combining two of the most uncommon, mysterious and outlandish sights the Eternal City has to offer.

You'll begin with the impressive Capuchin Crypt – known locally as the ‘Bone Chapel’. Here, Capuchin monks used the bones of nearly 4,000 of their brothers to decorate the walls and ceilings in intricate designs. You’ll see a real skull and crossbones, vertebrae chandeliers and full skeletons in their robes before drawing your own conclusions on the meaning of this macabre, yet intriguing place of prayer. The museum annex is also home to Caravaggio's masterpiece 'St. Francis in Meditation'.

After a short transfer by air-conditioned bus, you'll begin your visit to the ancient Catacombs of Priscilla. Here, you'll have the privilege of experiencing the Catacombs when their doors are closed to the general public.

Dating back almost 2,000 years to the 2nd century AD, this extensive network of tunnels snaking underground was once both a burial ground and a place of worship for the first Christians in Rome. With an expert, English-speaking guide on hand, you’ll explore these extensive tunnels lined with tombs carved right out of the rock, and hear the fascinating history of these sacred places.