According to the Catholic News Service who spoke with Raffaella Giuliani, chief inspector of the Roman catacombs, an unusual network of burial chambers was recently excavated and more than 1000 elegantly dressed corpses were uncovered. The chambers were found in 2003 when archaeologists were repairing one of Rome's catacombs that is closed to the public, the Catacomb of Sts. Peter and Marcellinus. The chambers, a series of large rooms, are believed to be from the second century and may be an early Christian burial place. Experts also think that the deaths may have been caused by an epidemic or natural disaster because of the large number of bodies buried during a short period of time. The bodies were dressed in nice clothing with gold threads and were neatly wrapped in sheets.

Although you can't visit these catacombs, there are several catacombs open to the public on Via Appia Antica, the ancient Roman road outside the walls. The Ancient Appian Way and catacombs are part of our recommended 3-day itinerary for Rome and our Top Ancient Rome sites.

If you're traveling in Rome this spring you might want to head to Rome's rose garden. The beautiful park has over 1200 roses and is free to the public. The winner of the best rose competition will be announced May 20. The Roseto Comunale, Via di Valle Murcia overlooking the Palatine Hill, is open daily from 08.00 -19.30 through June 11.

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