The Roman Catacombs are underground burial sites located beneath the city of Rome, Italy. They were primarily used by early Christians from the 2nd to the 5th centuries AD as a place to bury their dead and hold religious ceremonies. The catacombs feature intricate tunnels and chambers, often adorned with frescoes and inscriptions that reflect the beliefs of the time. These catacombs served as a refuge during periods of persecution, allowing Christians to practice their faith in secret. Today, several catacombs, such as Catacombs of San Callisto and Catacombs of San Sebastiano, are open to the public, offering a glimpse into early Christian history and burial practices.