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After decades of delays, two separate areas of the vast labyrinth of Domitilla catacombs were unveiled in May, 2017. More areas are expected to be opened to the public within the coming months.
The Domitilla catacombs were built near the Appian Way, a famous military road built in 312 BC.
They are Rome's largest catacombs, stretching over 12 kilometers (7.4 miles) and descending four levels with 26,250 tombs, dating from the 2nd to the 5th centuries.
The Domitilla catacombs were built near the Appian Way, a famous military road built in 312 BC.
They are Rome's largest catacombs, stretching over 12 kilometers (7.4 miles) and descending four levels with 26,250 tombs, dating from the 2nd to the 5th centuries.
"These tombs represent the roots of our deepest identity, the roots of Rome and of Christianity."
- Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, head Pontifical Commission of Sacred Archaeology.
- Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, head Pontifical Commission of Sacred Archaeology.
Sadly, many of the crypts have blotted out frescoes, a result of looting in the the Middle Ages.
Rome: Thousands of Additional Ancient Christian Tombs Unveiled
Photo: Dario Enriquez, Google
Photo: Dennis Jarvis
AP Photo/Andrew Medichini
Sources:
AP Photo/Andrew Medichini
Lasers have removed centuries of grime to reveal a number of frescoes depicting Christ and the apostles, the prophet Daniel and the lions, and Noah, as well as scenes of everyday life.