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Catacombs of Rome travel wonder in Italy |
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Why the These are sprawling underground labyrinth of corridors with tomb niches carved out of the rock walls. The passageways are long and multi-leveled and were created in the 2nd to early 5th centuries. Preserved decorations include religious frescoes, symbols and inscriptions.
Catacombs of Rome
They were constructed just outside of ancient Rome because the city prohibited open-air cemeteries.
Of the over 60 are known catacombs in the Rome area, St. Callixtus is the most popular for visitors.
Christians and Jews used catacombs because they were poor - and they believed that the body should be in tack for resurrection. (Cremation was the preferred funeral method among the Pagan Romans).
Some movies tell us that the persecuted Christians used the catacombs to hide from the Roman authorities. That's myth. Why hide there? The authorities were well aware of the catacomb locations and layouts.
Catacombs were built elsewhere in Italy, as well in distant lands.
The catacombs were neglected and abandoned. People soon forgot they existed. They were not discovered until the 17th century.
When to go to Rome Read my at-a-glance charts with tips & insights on Rome's:
View my other gold, silver & bronze medal
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My Italian phrase guide for travelers What every visitor should know.
Italian
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Vatican City
Note: Its wonders are not listed in my Italy Guide. Even though the Vatican lies within Rome, it is not part of it or Italy. It's an independent nation. Click to see its gold, silver and bronze medals,
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I hope your Italy travel dreams come true - and that my Catacombs of Rome page helps you enjoy your vacation, tour or trip ©2008 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications
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