Explore Naples’ Hidden Underground Catacombs

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Discover the eerie Catacombs of San Gaudioso with an eerie tour

Highlights

Discover an underground burial site with deep historical significance.

Marvel at detailed frescoes featuring macabre decorations.

Learn from knowledgeable guides fluent in English and Italian.

Experience a unique glimpse into Naples’ early Christian past.

Tour duration is approximately 50 minutes.

Hidden beneath the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità, the Catacombe di San Gaudioso are one of the most unusual underground sites in Naples. Early Christian frescoes sit alongside 17th-century tombs where real skulls were set into painted walls. Visits run as one-hour guided tours, so book your tickets online in advance to secure your slot.

About Catacombe di San Gaudioso

Image Credits: Catacombe di San Gaudioso

The catacombs began as an early Christian cemetery in the 4th–5th century AD. They grew in importance after Saint Gaudiosus, a bishop from North Africa who had fled Vandal persecution, was buried here in the mid-5th century.

Along the tunnels you’ll see 5th–6th century frescoes and mosaic fragments decorated with early Christian symbols such as fish, lambs and grapes.

Why Visit?

See one of Naples’ oldest Christian burial sites: An underground cemetery dating back to the 4th–5th century, built around the tomb of Saint Gaudiosus.

Admire early Christian art: Frescoes and mosaic fragments from the 5th–6th century, rich in symbols such as fish, lambs and grapes.

Discover the 17th-century skull tombs: Skulls set into the walls above painted figures of Neapolitan nobles and clergy.

Explore the Rione Sanità: Pair your tour with a stroll through one of Naples’ most characterful historic neighborhoods.

When to Visit Catacombe di San Gaudioso?

Opening Hours Monday, Tuesday and Thursday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Wednesdays

Guided tours leave every hour, with the last one at 5:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit Morning tours and weekdays are usually quieter than weekends and public holidays.

Find Your Way

The catacombs lie beneath the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità, in the Rione Sanità district just north of the historic center.

Address

Piazza Sanità, 14
80136 Naples, Italy

Getting There

By Metro
On Foot
By Taxi

Take Line 1 to Materdei or Museo, then walk about 10-15 minutes to Piazza Sanità.

Dining Near Catacombe di San Gaudioso

The Rione Sanità is known for its traditional trattorias, pizzerias and pastry shops, so it’s easy to pair your tour with a meal nearby.

Accessibility at Catacombe di San Gaudioso

The underground route includes steps, narrow passages and uneven floors, so it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Know Before You Go

Guided tours only: Independent visits aren’t possible.

Closed on Wednesdays: Plan your trip for any other day of the week.

Book ahead: Tours run at set times and can sell out on weekends and holidays.

Limited accessibility: The route includes stairs and narrow corridors.

FAQs About Catacombe di San Gaudioso

What are the Catacombe di San Gaudioso?

An early Christian burial complex beneath the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità, dating back to the 4th–5th century. It’s known for its early frescoes and its 17th-century skull tombs.

Where are the Catacombe di San Gaudioso located?

In the Rione Sanità district of Naples. The entrance is inside the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità, on Piazza Sanità.

Can I visit the catacombs without a guide?

No. The catacombs can only be visited on a guided tour.

Who was Saint Gaudiosus?

A bishop from North Africa who fled Vandal persecution and settled in Naples. He was buried here in the mid-5th century, and the catacombs grew around his tomb.

What languages are the tours in?

Guided tours are offered in Italian and English.

What will I see during the tour?

Early Christian burial chambers, frescoes and mosaic fragments, plus 17th-century tombs where skulls are set into painted walls.

Is the site suitable for children?

The tour includes human remains, such as skulls set into the walls, which some younger children may find unsettling.

What was the “draining” ritual?

In the 17th century, bodies were placed in stone niches so their fluids could drain away before burial. The undertakers who did this work were known in Neapolitan as schiattamuorti.

How is this site different from other Naples catacombs?

It’s the second-largest catacomb in Naples, and it combines 5th-century Christian art with the painted skull tombs of the 1600s.

Is this the venue’s official website?

No. This website offers official tickets to the Catacombe di San Gaudioso, but is not the venue’s official website.