Istituto Salesiano San Callisto

You drive down the Appian way in order to get here. Then you turn off of it into a road that traverses a very large grassy field. Who would think that the fields populated by a few goats would have have kilometers of tunnels beneath containing ancient catacombs. There is an above ground edifice that contains the entrance to the catacombs that was built to contain the entrance. The tour is lead by one of the priests of the Salesiano order whose duty is to operate, maintain and care for the site. As you descend the steps into the dark depths below the guide gives you a history both current and ancient of when the site was found and when the site was founded. If history is your thing this is surely it. There no longer are any remains here as they were removed to safeguard them. There are a few frescoes from biblical times. There is also a large cavernous area where services are held. Suffice it to say the tunnel networks are extensive so there were many graves here. Remember also to be respectful of where you are.

I know this may not be one of the top sights to see when in Rome, but it was definitely worth the trip if time allows. We took a day trip to Appian Way by packing a picnic and taking the bus to be dropped off near the catacombs. After purchasing the tickets (we picked a mid afternoon tour), we walked around Appian Way, checked out the little café (forgot the name) which also allow you to rent bikes. The bike ride at Appian Way with picnic was one of the most memorable moment of our trip.
The Catacombs tour was excellent. It was interesting to hear about the history and a bit eerie to follow the tour guide, listening to her saying not to stray from the tour group as one can realllly get lost down here.

This is better known as the Catacombs of San Callisto, run by the Salesiano order. I’ll admit to some preconceptions going in, thanks to Rick Steves. I expected a low budget, cheesy, overcrowded tour.
The reality is FAR different. San Callisto is the first Roman Christian cemetery with 16 early popes interred here at one point. The tunnels go on for 20+ km, there are many early frescoes, no — Christians didn’t hide out here, and there are an estimated 500,000 graves on 4 levels.
The catacombs are administered by the Salesiano order and our tour was led by a very cool Australian priest who was interesting, not churchy at all, but able to provide a great intro to the history of this place. If you are looking for a scare, or to see bones, it won’t be here. This is still the resting place of hundreds of thousands, and they take that seriously and reverently.
Tips — the 218 bus stops right in front and can be picked up @ S. John Lateran. Also, it’s a lot of stair climbing, tight passages and there is no access for those with disabilities.