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4.4(1,399)

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Catacombs of San Gennaro
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From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Brugnola Maria Luisa

Brugnola

Sep 2022
5/5
Bella esperienza, aspettata da anni. Nonostante fine settembre molto affollata da turisti. Trovo molto utile la prenotazione online.
Jennifer Michelle LeRow

Jennifer

May 2025
5/5
We were through the line quickly at Peastum - it was a beautiful! Pompeii was another story as we were not aware of the 1st Sunday of each month being a Museum holiday where everyone egts in free. We waited in line for 2 hours because the "voucher" did not count as a printed ticket aloowing us immediate acccess, and then we were smooshed in through the gates by hoards of people trying to get in before it closed.
Mr Denis Mclean
GB

Mr

United Kingdom
Oct 2023
4/5
Easy to use and good value for site entry and getting around. Got on train from Sorrento to Herculaneum not knowing it only stopped a few times a day. Went through to Naples and easily caught the train to Herculaneum without extra cost or trouble. 😂
JARROUSSE LECROQ
FR

Jarrousse

France
Apr 2025
4/5
easy access to transport and museums. but I'd like to take issue with 2 things: the poor explanations on how to activate the card and the need to reactivate it each time it's used.
Rosana Aparecida de Oliveira Batista da Silva
BR

Rosana

Brazil
Oct 2024
4/5
The entrances were easy. As for public transport, we opted only for the metro, but the clerk always had to let us in. But I highly recommend it
MARIA CARMEN BELEÑA NIEVES

Maria

Aug 2025
5/5
Very good tour of the Catacombs of San Gennaro, for the others I could not go, I did not know how to get the new tickets and I did not trust getting there and not being able to enter because of too many visitors.
Lebon Hutchinson-Ballesteros

Lebon

Jul 2025
5/5
My family had a great time learning about the catacombs, the neighborhood and the history and burial practices of the 6th century AD. The surrounding town has great restaurants too!
France frederick
FR

France

France
Jun 2025
5/5
San Genaro is the more beautiful of the two and more impressive. The guide (in English) was very interesting and clear. San gaudioso (included in the same ticket) was less spectacular and the guide much less comprehensible. Nevertheless, this is a must-see on any trip to Naples. Unfortunately, no photos allowed!

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Unearthing history: The fascinating Catacombs of San Gennaro

The Catacombs of San Gennaro are the largest and most iconic underground burial site in southern Italy, dating back to the 2nd century CE. Carved out of porous tuff stone and spanning two expansive levels, they house early Christian frescoes, bishop's tombs, and the original resting place of Naples’ beloved patron saint. Read on to know more.

Why visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro?

Catacombs Of San Gennaro

🎨⛏️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.

Things to know before booking Catacombs of San Gennaro tickets

  • You will enjoy a 60-minute guided tour of the Catacombs in either English or Italian, with an expert guide setting context for everything you see.
  • After the tour, you have the opportunity to explore the Basilica of Buon Consiglio above the Catacombs.
  • With these tickets, you also get a free ticket to the Catacombs of San Gaudioso – valid for 12 months.
  • The Catacombs of San Gennaro is the only site in the Naples Underground that is accessible by wheelchair, thanks to the well-adapted wide corridors.
  • The Royal Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro is located over 3 kilometers away from the Catacombs, inside the Cathedral of Naples. You can either choose entry tickets with an audio guide, or an informative guided tour.

Explore the Catacombs of San Gennaro

Ancient tombs Catacombs for San Gennaro

The Tombs

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.

Frescoes and Mosaics

Frescoes and Mosaics

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 Crypt of San Gennaro

The Crypt of San Gennaro

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 Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità

The Basilica of Sant’Agrippino

The Basilica of Sant’Agrippino, around which the lower layer of the Catacombs of San Gennaro extend, features a 4th-century stone altar, ancient frescoes, and early Christian burial sites honoring Naples' first patron saint. It is still used for mass some times.

The Underground Tunnels

The Underground Tunnels

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.

The Chapel of San Gennaro

The Chapel of San Gennaro

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.

Distance between the Catacombs of San Gennaro and the Royal Chapel of the Treasure

Distance between the Catacombs of San Gennaro and the Catacombs of San Gaudioso

Plan your visit to the Catacombs of San Gennaro

Catacombs of San Gennaro

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.

entrance

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.

restroom

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.

Spaghetti
Tips
  • Wear comfortable shoes: The catacombs are underground and involve a lot of walking, so it is essential to wear comfortable shoes.
  • Book a guided tour in advance: It is recommended to book a guided tour in advance to get your preferred time slot, as it is the only way to access the catacombs. There are several tour options available in English or Italian.
  • Arrive early: The catacombs can get busy, especially during peak tourist season. Arriving early can help you avoid long lines and crowded conditions.
  • Avoid touching anything: The catacombs are an ancient burial site, and visitors should refrain from touching anything, including the walls and the artifacts.
  • Respect the rules: Visitors should follow the rules and regulations set by the catacombs' management to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Crater of Mount Vesuvius
  • Naples Cathedral: The Naples Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is a beautiful church located in the heart of the city. It features an ornate interior with many works of art and is one of Naples' most important religious sites.
  • National Archaeological Museum: The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is one of the world's most important museums of ancient art and artifacts. It features an extensive collection of artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as ancient Greece and Rome.
  • Mount Vesuvius: Mount Vesuvius is an active volcano located just outside of Naples. Visitors can hike to the summit of the volcano and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Pompeii: Pompeii is an ancient Roman city that was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The ruins of Pompeii are one of the world's most famous archaeological sites and offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life.
  • Herculaneum: Herculaneum is another ancient Roman city that was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It is smaller than Pompeii but is better preserved, making it an excellent destination for history buffs.

Frequently asked questions about San Gennaro Catacombs

For how long is my ticket for San Gennaro valid?

The ticket for San Gennaro along with San Gaudioso is valid for 12 months.

Do I need to book a tour in advance to visit the San Gennaro catacombs?

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.

What can I see at the San Gennaro catacombs?

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.

How long does it take to visit the San Gennaro catacombs?

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.

Are the San Gennaro catacombs accessible to wheelchair users?

Yes, the San Gennaro catacombs are accessible to wheelchair users, with some limitations depending on maintenance work.

Are there any restrictions on photography inside the San Gennaro catacombs?

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.

What should I wear when visiting the San Gennaro catacombs?

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.

Can I visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro on my own, or do I need to take a guided tour?

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.

Is there parking available near the Catacombs of San Gennaro?

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.

Are there any age restrictions for visiting the Catacombs of San Gennaro?

There are no specific age restrictions for visiting the Catacombs of San Gennaro, although young children may find the site somewhat scary or unsettling.

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.