Monumental complex of Saint Agnes Outside the Walls

Basilica of Saint Agnes Outside the Walls

The complex of Saint Agnes Outside the Walls in Rome is located at the second mile of the Via Nomentana, northeast of the city center.
The site includes the Catacombs of Saint Agnes, the Basilica of Constantine (4th century), of which the walls remain, the Mausoleum of Saint Constance, the Basilica of Saint Agnes or of Honorius (7th century), which is the current church, and an annexed monastery.

The catacombs were originally a Roman cemetery in the 2nd century AD, with mausoleums and columbaria. Saint Agnes was buried there after her martyrdom. The pagan necropolis was destroyed in the 4th century to make way for the Constantinian basilica, while the Christian catacombs were preserved.

Main highlights of Saint Agnes

• Basilica of Saint Agnes Outside the Walls (7th century)
  Built by Pope Honorius I, this three-naved basilica is adorned with 16 ancient columns and a 7th-century Byzantine mosaic depicting Saint Agnes flanked by Popes Symmachus and Honorius. The high altar, inlaid with precious stones, houses the relics of Saints Agnes and Emerentiana.
• Catacombs of Saint Agnes
  These Christian catacombs, dating back to the 2nd century, extend over three levels. They contain the tomb of Saint Agnes as well as ancient frescoes and inscriptions, offering valuable insight into early Christian funerary practices.
• Mausoleum of Saint Constance (4th century)
  Built by Emperor Constantine for his daughter Constance, this early Christian mausoleum features a circular design and mosaics illustrating Christian scenes. It stands as a remarkable example of 4th-century Christian funerary art.
• Constantinian Basilica (4th century)
  The remains of this basilica, built by Constance, daughter of Emperor Constantine, are the oldest part of the complex. It served as a place of worship for martyrs and is associated with the earliest Christian practices in Rome.

Articles related to the Sainte Agnes complex

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