Beneath the ruined basilica of San Giovanni Evangelista — an impressive open-air site — lies the largest catacomb complex in Sicily (IV-V century A.D.), second only to Rome. Unlike the Roman catacombs, which are carved into soft tuff, here the galleries repurpose a Greek aqueduct: the main decumanus is wide and tall, featuring circular chambers that were cisterns. Thousands of loculi, frescoed arcosolia, and the shrine where the sarcophagus of Adelfia was found (now at the Paolo Orsi). Below the basilica is the crypt of San Marciano, the first bishop of Syracuse, martyred in 254: according to tradition, here San Paolo preached on his way to Rome. Visits are guided only, with regular departures; bring a sweater, as it can be cool down there even in summer.
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