I passed a room containing a chest and some other furniture in the Catacombs that i could see into but not get into, near the area where there are 3 rotating doors. Is there a way in?

Yes, there's a hidden switch somewhere in the room. It took me sometime to find it.

i checked all over the room, still can't find it. i know, i svck. just to make sure we are thinking of the same room, the one i'm in has a small opening in a little alcove into the room with the chest and a few other things. what part of the room is the hidden button in? it's very well hidden

Are you talking about the one on the walkway above the chair/throne? I assumed there is a switch somewhere but I have yet to find it with any of my character and I think I've covered every inch of that room.

Hmmm ... found this in the wiki:

There is also a hidden room behind the small "Skeleton Court Room". To get there you have to jump atop the pillars and use the "http://elderscrolls.wikia.com/wiki/Whirlwind_Sprint" http://elderscrolls.wikia.com/wiki/Dragon_shouts.

i don't think thats the same one i'm looking for. the main room adjoining the room i want to get into has the 2 soul-gem-powered 'turrets'. The section is called Potemas Refuge.

per wiki: Walking forwards will bring you to a room with three of the previously encountered revolving doorways, and three corresponding levers. Just before the first lever is a room to the right with a Vampire in it. After taking care of the Vampire, enter the room and activate the lever behind the ornate black coffin- this opens a secret door to a passage leading to two urns and a chest with gold.

that did the trick, thanks. shame the treasure contained there was not even worth the effort though.

2 Septims and a minor stamina pot?