The History of the of the Catacombs of Rome and their Rediscovery during the Counter-Reformation
Thursday 28 November, 2.30 pm
This talk covers the origins of the Catacombs of Rome and the extraordinarily varied art that adorns them. The art historian Geri Parlby dispels the myth that persecuted Christians hid inside the burial site tunnels, instead focusing on the more unusual habits practiced underground, such as the tradition of dining with the dead. Some of the oldest symbols of Christianity are found within in the catacombs, from the iconic fish to the mysterious praying female figures, exquisitely depicted in frescoes and sarcophagi carvings.
Part of the Art of Ancient Civilisations lecture series, organised by the Art Fund and taking place in the Lecture Theatre at the Wallace Collection
Booking through the Art Fund: please call 0844 415 4100 (Monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm)