1. Rome: Official Guided Tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus
Uncover the secrets of ancient Rome, hidden in its underground cemeteries. Join a guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, excavated by the Christians between the 3rd and 5th centuries. Learn about the mysterious origins of this site and its rediscovery in the modern era. Enter the crypt of the 3rd-century Popes, where 5 of the 9 tombstones of Rome's bishops who were buried here are still preserved. Then admire a slab of marble where some famous verses of Pope Damasus were engraved. Next, cross a narrow arch and enter the crypt where St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music, was first buried. Be inspired by her history while contemplating the crypt's decorative frescoes and a copy of the statue made by Maderno, depicting the martyr's body when a reconnaissance was made in 1599. From the crypt of Santa Cecilia, continue your tour through the oldest part of the catacomb. Admire its majestic galleries and the beautiful cubicles of "sacraments". Finally, walk through the maze of tunnels dug in peacetime, trying to find your way out. Along the way, see various archaeological finds of funeral furniture before coming up to see the sunlight again.