Beneath the roofless Basilica di San Giovanni in Syracuse, the Catacombe di San Giovanni is a vast Christian burial complex dating from the 4th to 6th centuries. A guided route leads through limestone tunnels lined with tombs and niches, past fading frescoes and a private chapel. The visit also includes the San Marziano crypt, associated with Saint Paul and an early image of Saint Lucy. The underground passages began as Greek aqueducts and later served as a World War II shelter. Allow about 40 minutes for the tour.
From Greek aqueducts to Christian burial chambers
The tunnels beneath San Giovanni began as Greek aqueducts. After they were no longer used to carry water, the passages became a Christian cemetery. The burial complex dates from the 4th to 6th centuries and is among the largest catacombs in Italy outside Rome. One account puts its area at about 10,000 square metres.
The underground cemetery is part of a wider historic setting. Above it are the roofless remains of the Basilica di San Giovanni, Syracuse’s first cathedral. The building was not reconstructed after the 1693 earthquake. Its ruined walls mark the entrance to a site used for Christian burials over many centuries.
Tombs, niches and a private chapel
The guided circuit passes through limestone tunnels containing tombs and burial niches. Fading frescoes remain on the walls, and the route includes a private chapel. The scale of the passages helps explain why the cemetery is a striking part of Syracuse’s early Christian heritage.
The catacombs also took on a different role during World War II, when they were used as a shelter. That later history sits alongside the much older aqueducts and burial chambers, giving the site several distinct layers to encounter underground.
The San Marziano crypt and the guided visit
A visit includes the San Marziano crypt as well as the catacombs. The crypt is associated with Saint Paul’s preaching, and with an early image of Saint Lucy. It is an additional part of the site’s Christian history, reached as part of the visit beneath the ruined church.
Entry to the catacombs is by guided tour, which typically lasts around 40 minutes. The route descends into the crypt before continuing through the tunnels. Steps and uneven access can make the visit difficult for people with mobility limitations. Photography is prohibited underground, so leave the camera packed while in the catacombs. Ask staff to clarify the complete ticket price and any optional VR presentation before paying.
Perguntas frequentes
Can you visit the Catacombe di San Giovanni without a guide?
No. Visits to the catacombs are guided-only.
How long does the tour take?
The guided tour typically lasts about 40 minutes.
Can you take photos inside the catacombs?
Photography is prohibited in the underground catacombs. Photos may be allowed in ground-level and above-ground areas.
Is the route accessible for people with mobility limitations?
The visit includes steps and uneven access, especially in the crypt, so it can be difficult for people with mobility limitations.
