Catacombs

Post date: Sep 19, 2011 1:34:40 AM

The map of the Roman catacombs shows about 900 miles of subterranean chambers and galleries used by peoples of the ancient Mediterranean world for burial purposes.  These tunnels have come to be known as catacombs, probably named after a location south of Rome.

Christians called them "sleeping places," to suggest that, for a Christian, death was merely sleep before resurrection. In its simplest form, a catacomb consisted of several underground galleries and chambers in a rectangular or grid plan.  Loculi (recesses) were cut into the walls, one above another, to receive the bodies of from one to four family members.

The tombs of martyrs, usually in separate chambers, served as altars.  As Christianity gained converts and burials multiplied, the catacombs were expanded into honeycombs of galleries. When one level was no longer sufficient, staircases were dug and a second, third, fourth, or even fifth level of galleries was excavated below. Many of the catacombs of prominent Christians were decorated with wall paintings depicting Christian symbols, such as the fish, lamb, and anchor, or with biblical scenes. The display room is of a typical height and width, with a typical number of loculi.  We can see representations of the artwork painted on the walls and in the tombs.  A display board describes many of the symbols and their significance to those who used them.  There is also a display of early inscriptions.  As we examine the displays, we can hear the chanting of an early hymn in the corridor.  These catacombs may not have been reasonable places to hide for extended stays, but they were certainly used for worship that took place during funeral services. We see signs of the elements of communion and prayer on the walls, as well as artwork that symbolizes resurrection and recalls Jesus as the Good Shepherd.  As we turn to leave the catacomb area, we see a small theater to our left, playing shorts of some of the movies we have seen clips of in the other rooms.  And we see the artwork station with its candy and a place to practice drawing some of the symbols we have seen on the back of the stamp-board.  And there are activity sheets, as in all the rooms. 

As we pause, before leaving the room, we notice a number of quotes and display boards on our way to the "Jesus" room.  One of them lists a number of charges made against Christians in this day before the legalization of the faith. 

WANTED

CHRISTIANS

Anyone having information about those belonging to the dangerous superstition known as "Christianity" is to report to the authorities without delay. This is an insidious movement and must be stopped. Christians are charged with the following:

1. Cannibalism

2. Disruption of business

3. Gross immorality (including incest)

4. Antifamily actions

5. Poverty

6. Atheism

7. Introduction of Novelties

8. Lack of Patriotism

9. Antisocial behavior

10. Causing Disasters .