Catacombs of San Gennaro Tourism

The Catacombs of San Gennaro are ancient underground burial sites located in Naples, Italy, below the hillside district of Sanità. This network of tombs dates back to at least the 2nd century AD, reflecting the early Christian practices of burial and veneration of saints. The catacombs are named after St. Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples; his remains were once housed here before being moved to the Cathedral of Naples. This subterranean labyrinth is famous for its remarkable frescoes, mosaics, and inscriptions, which offer insights into early Christian iconography and the socio-religious culture of the time. Visitors can explore two levels of this extensive complex, which include spacious galleries and cubicles carved into the soft tuff stone. The site also served as a pilgrimage center, with the lower level featuring a basilica dedicated to St. Gennaro. These catacombs are significant for their artistic and historical value, providing a unique glimpse into the past and the evolution of funerary customs in Christian antiquity.