Photos: Paintings of Christ and a 'Baker' Revealed in Roman Burial Chambers

Beauty revealed

roman catacomb tomb

(Image credit: Photo courtesy Pontificia Commissione di Archeologia Sacra)

This catacomb tomb was created by an unnamed grain purchaser who likely held a high position in the Annona, an office in Rome that handled grain purchases. The remains of two coffins can be seen amidst the painted frescoes. A laser cleaning project has resulted in centuries of grime being removed, revealing vivid details.

[Read the full story on the catacomb frescoes]

Discovery noted

roman catacomb tomb

(Image credit: Photo courtesy Pontificia Commissione di Archeologia Sacra)

An image of Christ seated on a throne surrounded by his apostles can be seen here. The name "Bosio" refers to a 16th-century explorer who first discovered the catacomb tomb.

Frescos in detail

roman catacomb tomb

(Image credit: Photo courtesy Pontificia Commissione di Archeologia Sacra)

A fresco of a shepherd can be seen in this photograph of the western section of the catacomb tomb.

Modern tech

roman catacomb tomb

(Image credit: Photo courtesy Pontificia Commissione di Archeologia Sacra)

Laser cleaning of the catacombs has meant that centuries of grime are being removed allowing the frescoes in the catacombs beneath the city of Rome to be revealed in full.

Uncovering the past

roman catacomb tomb

(Image credit: Photo courtesy Pontificia Commissione di Archeologia Sacra)

Another fresco gradually being revealed as the laser removes grime.

[Read the full story on the catacomb frescoes]

Much to examine

roman catacomb tomb

(Image credit: Photo courtesy Pontificia Commissione di Archeologia Sacra)

A fresco from another section of the catacomb known as the "introductio" shows Christ seated on a throne, his right arm raised before two deceased individuals and their patron saints who are likely Saints Peter and Paul. Frescoes showing stories from the Bible can be seen around the image of Christ.

Owen Jarus
Live Science Contributor

Owen Jarus is a regular contributor to Live Science who writes about archaeology and humans' past. He has also written for The Independent (UK), The Canadian Press (CP) and The Associated Press (AP), among others. Owen has a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Toronto and a journalism degree from Ryerson University.