The Vatican reopened the Priscilla Catacombs in Rome after five years of restoration work, notably the laser restoration of the frescos dating from the first centuries of Christianity. The frescoes were rediscovered in the 16th century.

Additionally, an agreement between the Pontifical Commission for Sacred Archeology and Google Maps makes it possible to virtually visit the catacombs, witnessing the life of the first Christians.

The Priscilla Catacombs are a labyrinth of corridors that extend for miles under the ground of Rome that have provided treasures for centuries for archeologists through paintings, artifacts and graffiti, including a fresco of a woman some claim proves the existence of female priests.

This well-preserved fresco was created between the second and fifth centuries. The woman in the middle of the composition, wearing a habit that could be liturgical, lifts her arms in a manner of a priest during the eucharistic ceremony.

The archeological superintendent of the catacombs believes the interpretation is sensationalistic, believing the scene in question is a funerary banquet, with the woman in the middle celebrated for her arrival in heaven. For Barbara Mazzei, of the Pontifical Commission for Sacred Archeology, the interpretation of the lady in the middle as proof of the ordination of female priests, "is a construction not founded in reality."

The Vatican and Google Maps partner to map miles of catacombs under the streets of Rome.

Satellite view of the entrance to the Priscilla Catacombs.

Location of the entrance of the Pricsilla Catacombs in Rome.