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Flexible entry to the largest Christian burial sites in Naples, alongside an expert guide.
Flexible entry to the largest Christian burial sites in Naples, alongside an expert guide.
Inclusions
Access the Royal Chapel of the Treasure and learn about the city's patron Saint Gennaro.
Access the Royal Chapel of the Treasure and learn about the city's patron Saint Gennaro.
Inclusions
With an expert guide, discover the treasures of San Gennaro at the Royal Chapel and Museum.
With an expert guide, discover the treasures of San Gennaro at the Royal Chapel and Museum.
Inclusions
🎨⛏️Explore early Christian art and architecture
Marvel at frescoes, mosaics, and paintings from the 2nd to 6th centuries CE. The artwork reflects the transition from Roman paganism to early Christianity, offering a rare glimpse into the evolving religious and cultural landscape. Most tunnels were dug out by hand and are supported by impressive arches and columns that have withstood the test of time.
⚰️🪦Witness Naples’ rich burial traditions
The Catacombs showcase the burial practices of early Christians, featuring expansive underground burial chambers for common people, noble families, and bishops. These catacombs also house the original resting place of Saint Gennaro, Naples’ patron saint, whose relics are central to the city's identity.
📍⛰️Experience the largest Catacombs in southern Italy
The Catacombs of San Gennaro are the largest in the region, spanning two levels with wide, accessible corridors. Unlike other catacombs in Europe, they are spacious and well-ventilated, allowing visitors to explore their vast, labyrinthine structure comfortably.
The catacombs contain several tombs that were used to bury early Christian martyrs and other important figures from the period. Visitors can see the sarcophagi and burial niches, as well as the inscriptions and artwork that adorn them.
The catacombs contain several impressive frescoes and mosaics that were created by early Christian artists. These artworks depict scenes from the Bible and early Christian life, and are a testament to the skill and creativity of the artists of the time.
The catacombs also contain the Crypt of San Gennaro, which is the final resting place of the patron saint of Naples. The crypt contains a silver reliquary that is said to hold the blood of San Gennaro, as well as several other relics and artifacts.
The Catacombs of San Gennaro are located beneath the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità, which is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture. Visitors can explore the basilica and see its impressive frescoes and artwork.
One of the most interesting things about the Catacombs of San Gennaro is the underground tunnels themselves. Visitors can walk through the narrow passageways and see the impressive engineering and architecture that went into their construction.
In addition to the Crypt of San Gennaro, the catacombs also contain the Chapel of San Gennaro, which is a small room that contains a statue of the saint. Visitors can see the intricate artwork and frescoes that adorn the chapel.
Open: Thursday to Tuesday
Timings: 10am to 5pm. The last admission is at 5pm.
Closed: Every Wednesday, January 1, and December 25.
Best time to visit: Visit San Gennaro during the low season, from November to February. Avoid weekends and public holidays and visit during the early mornings or after 4pm.
Address
Main entrance: Via Capodimonte, 13, 80100 Napoli NA, Italy
Street-level accessible entrance: Vicoletto S. Gennaro dei Poveri, 22
Getting there
🚌By bus: Take lines 168, 178, C63, or R4 and get off at the Basilica Incoronata - Catacombe San Gennaro stop.
🚇By metro: Take Metro Line 1 to the Materdei station. From there, it's a 15-minute walk to the catacombs.
🚙By car: Accessible via the Naples' Tangenziale beltline. Simply take exit 5 and turn right onto Via Capodimonte to reach your destination.
Chapel: There is a small chapel within the catacombs that is still used for religious ceremonies.
Gift shop: There is a gift shop at the entrance of the catacombs where visitors can purchase souvenirs.
Restrooms: There are restrooms available for visitors to use at the entrance of the catacombs.
Accessibility: The catacombs are not fully accessible for visitors with mobility impairments, but there are some areas that are accessible.
Parking: There is a parking lot available for visitors to use, but it is small and can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
The ticket for San Gennaro along with San Gaudioso is valid for 12 months.
It is generally recommended to book a tour in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist season. However, it is also possible to purchase tickets on the day of your visit, subject to availability.
Visitors to the San Gennaro catacombs can see a variety of tombs, frescoes, mosaics, and other artwork from the early Christian period. The catacombs also contain the Crypt of San Gennaro, which is the final resting place of the patron saint of Naples.
A visit to the San Gennaro catacombs typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, although this can vary depending on how much time you spend exploring each area.
Yes, the San Gennaro catacombs are accessible to wheelchair users, with some limitations depending on maintenance work.
Yes, photography is generally not allowed inside the San Gennaro catacombs, although there may be some exceptions for certain areas or exhibits. Visitors should check with staff before taking any photographs.
Visitors should wear comfortable and sturdy shoes because the catacombs contain uneven surfaces and stairs. As the catacombs are a religious site, and respectful and modest attire is appreciated.
Visitors are required to take a guided tour to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro. The tour is led by an expert guide who can provide insight into the history and significance of the site.
There is limited parking available near the Catacombs of San Gennaro, although it is generally recommended to use public transportation or a taxi to reach the site.
There are no specific age restrictions for visiting the Catacombs of San Gennaro, although young children may find the site somewhat scary or unsettling.