Carini Archaeological – The Catacomb, the Museum and the Mosaic

A full day dedicated to discovering the historical and archaeological heritage of Carini: this is the spirit of “Carini Archaeological – The Catacomb, the Museum and the Mosaic,” an event that will guide visitors on a fascinating journey through early Christian archaeology, mosaic art, and the history of the territory.

The itinerary unfolds through three symbolic sites of ancient Hyccara, the Late Antique settlement identified in the San Nicola area, where between the 4th and 6th centuries AD a prosperous and dynamic rural community flourished.

The Early Christian Catacomb of Villagrazia di Carini

An underground complex dating to the 4th century AD, one of the most important in Sicily, characterized by galleries, burial chambers (cubicula), and beautiful early Christian frescoes. Guided tours will help visitors understand the organization of the cemetery, the funerary practices, and the life of the Christian community that lived in the area.

The Catacomb Museum

A small but precious exhibition space that preserves finds from both the catacomb and the Late Antique and early medieval settlement of San Nicola. Ceramics, everyday objects, and architectural materials tell the story of a community that, between the late Roman period and the early Middle Ages, represented a vital center in the Sicilian countryside.

The Great Mosaic of San Nicola – Special Opening at 11:00

Discovered at the end of the 19th century and now preserved in the cloister of San Rocco, the mosaic once belonged to the reception hall of a wealthy Late Roman domus. Its polychrome tesserae—turquoise, green, yellow, and ochre—form vegetal and animal motifs with strong symbolic meaning, alluding to the prosperity of the dominus and his family.
A masterpiece usually accessible only upon request, exceptionally open to the public for this event.

🕰️ Visit Schedule (Reservation required)

Villagrazia Catacomb
10:00 – 11:00 – 12:00 – 15:00 – 16:00 – 17:00
Duration: 1 hour

San Nicola Mosaic
Single visit: 11:00
Duration: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

🎟️ Tickets

If you are interested in visiting only the Catacomb of Villagrazia di Carini, click here.

Catacomb + Mosaic: €8 / €5 (under 18)

Note: The mosaic visit is free; the ticket covers entry to the catacomb and the management and promotion costs of the event.