XEE4408402 The catacombs of Rome were used to bury Christian martyrs in the first century without encountering any obstacles from the Romans. Around 257, under the reign of Emperor Valerian, persecution against the dead began and many Christians were pursued and hunted down to death in these underground asylums, that is, in these catacombs. by Unknown Artist, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: The catacombs of Rome were used to bury Christian martyrs in the first century without encountering any obstacles from the Romans. Around 257, under the reign of Emperor Valerian, persecution against the dead began and many Christians were pursued and hunted down to death in these underground asylums, that is, in these catacombs.); Stefano Bianchetti.