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Vatican Necropolis: All you need to know to visit St Peter’s Tomb

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During the mid-20th century, excavations under the Vatican City revealed an amazing find. A necropolis, dating back to the 3rd century!

An old cemetery, one of many outside of the original city walls, was the resting place of many. St Peter was buried here after his martyrdom in ca. 64 AD. Despite laws protecting the Necropolis, the Emperor Constantine planned to build a Basilica on the site of St Peter’ final resting place. He had the area excavated, with orders to preserve St Peter’s tomb. The rest of the Necropolis became submerged in soil and debris during the construction, and largely forgotten.

The Origin of the Vatican Necropolis

The Vatican Necropolis, which you can access with a Vatican Necropolis Scavi tour, is thus thousands of years old. Originally a pagan burial ground, a Vatican Necropolis tour will take you through different sections.

The pagan section dates back to the first century AD. By the 5th Century AD Christian mausoleums began to appear. The Necropolis is located on the Vatican Hill slopes, and in the mid-20th Century Pope Pius decided to excavate the area in order to find St Peter’s burial place. The Necropolis was therefore uncovered, and remains a site of much interest to this day.

Excavations

The excavations of Pope Pius in the 1940s unearthed a world of treasures. Numerous Mausoleums were discovered, each classified with different letters.

Later, in the early 2000s, more of the Necropolis was uncovered during the building of a car park.  The tombs under the Vatican are spread through 22 Mausoleums, and lead right through to the famous Field P. It is here that the apostle Peter is believed to be buried at St Peter’s Tomb .

The location is underground however is directly below the altar of the world renowned St Peter’s Basilica .

Why should you consider visiting the Necropolis?

What more important place in the entire Vatican City than the supposed final resting place of St Peter? Not as famous as the museums, the Basilica or the Sistine Chapel , a Vatican necropolis tour is well worth the money. It’s an exclusive experience, with entry on special agreement only . Vatican Scavi reservations are definitely hard to come by!

In addition, the conditions inside the Necropolis aren’t for everyone. It’s a bit claustrophobic for example, so not everyone wants to visit. Therefore, you can count yourself part of an exclusive group of people who have seen the remains of St Peter! You’ll just have to get past the Swiss Guards that guard the Vatican Necropolis entrance first!

What to expect in the Vatican Necropolis ?

Whilst it would make good sense to try and tick off the whole of the Vatican in one day, we’d recommend against it. It is indeed possible, but you might feel a little tired and overwhelmed by the end of the day!

The Vatican Scavi Tour is awe inspiring, and from start to finish will take about 2 hours , perhaps 3-4 if you spend more time in the Vatican Grottoes . On top of that, you will want to take a tour of the Basilica too!

If you do all of this in combination with the Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel , you’d be exhausted! The Vatican Museum needs at least 3 hours to do it justice. And that’s not including queuing for tickets if you didn’t prebook skip the line tickets to the Vatican.

If you do want to combine all together, we suggest you look at the Vatican gardens and Necropolis via triumphalis Tour , mentioned a bit later on this page.

How to get tickets to visit the Necropolis ?

Vatican necropolis entrance tickets.

As we mentioned before, tickets are on a limited basis and subject to approval by the Scavi office.   Only 250 people max are permitted to enter each day . Of course, this is to preserve the ancient site from mass tourism destruction.

The Scavi website promises to accept all requests, provided there is enough space on the time slot requested. See here for more details as to how to apply for a slot directly with the Scavi office.

Tickets cost just €13 and include a full guided tour ! What a deal!

Vatican Necropolis Scavi Tour

Due to the sensitive nature of the site, tour groups must be accompanied by a qualified guide . They are really knowledgeable about the area.  The groups are limited to sizes of 12 only . From the Vatican Necropolis entrance you will be led through the area, learning as you go. Finally, you will come to the Tomb of St Peter.

At the end of the tour, the tour guide will leave you to have a look around the Vatican Grottoes . This is not to be confused with the Necropolis, and is one level up. This is the resting place of many of the Popes through the ages.

Vatican gardens and Necropolis via Triumphalis Tour

If you want even more of an overview of the Necropolis, then check this out. The Vatican Gardens and Necropolis tour, including the Via Triumphalis, is a special treat. The Via Triumphalis is the route along which most of the Necropolis is found. As the name suggests, the tour will see a knowledgeable guide take you through the Vatican Gardens and Necropolis. The ticket also includes free access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel so is a good overall package.

Our Top tips to visit the Vatican Necropolis

• Skip the Queue! If you have access to the Vatican Necropolis you will be able to skip the people queuing to get into the Basilica at the end of your tour!
• Reserve early! Due to the limited space you might be disappointed if you don’t!
• Pay by credit card. If you get confirmation you are accepted you will receive a link to do so.
• Top Tip! The tickets are scarce and are reserved sometimes months before. If you can’t get one, show up anyway and ask if anyone has cancelled. You might get lucky!

Important information about the Vatican Necropolis

Pay attention to these rules – this is a sacred site so needs to be treated accordingly.

• Appropriate dress – no skirts, shorts or bare shoulders
• Important for families – no one under 15 years is allowed in!
• Rucksacks are not permitted
• Not suitable for those suffering claustrophobia
• Not suitable for those who suffer from issues caused by damp atmosphere

Vatican Necropolis opening hours

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. Saturdays until 6pm

How to get to the Vatican Necropolis ?

The Vatican City is accessible by many different forms of transport. The entrance to the Vatican Necropolis can be found in St Peter’s Square, directly below the basilica.

By Metro, take line A to Ottaviano-S. Pietro. It will take just a few minutes to walk into the Vatican

By Train , the St Pietro Station is located about 10 minutes’ walk from the Vatican City

By Bus , Line 64 and 62 stop directly at the Vatican.  Don’t forget that many Hop on Hop off busses stop here too!

Walk – Of course, if you are near enough, you can walk to the Vatican City. Nearby Trastevere is a convenient location for example, with Passeggiata del Gianicolo offering some cool shade in the summer.

FAQ – Vatican Necropolis

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Can you tour the Vatican necropolis?

You can tour the Necropolis only on Scavi office approval. You have to send a request ahead. only allows about 250 people per day to visit the Necropolis.

Can you visit the necropolis?

Yes you do. But remember that only 250 people per day are allowed to visit the Necropolis, and this in groups of 12-15 people.

How long is the Vatican Necropolis Tour?

Expect a visit of at least 1,5-2 hours.

Is the Scavi tour worth it?

It is if you’re into religion and don’t want to miss out apostle tomb’s and ancient Rome cemeteries.

Are all the popes buried in the Vatican?

Most of them, yes. But there are also Papal tombs in Rome’s major churches as other churches around Italy.

What is the difference between a cemetery and a necropolis?

Cemeteries are places where the deceased are buried, while a necropolis is a kind of large cemetery, but is usually found in places steeped in history or in ancient cities.

Thanks for reading this guide. Visit the Scavi website directly if you want, or look for special deals on Roma Pass . Here, you are able to get bolt-ons that you can’t buy directly from the Scavi website, such as audio guides and extended tours. One we would recommend is the Necropolis plus Basilica tour – this will really finish off the day nicely.

If you are interested in a tour of the Vatican Necropolis then you had better get working on it quickly to ensure you don’t miss your slot!

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Vatican Underground Tours | Vatican Necropolis Tours & Tickets

What is vatican necropolis.

The Vatican Necropolis is located beneath the Vatican City , between 5 and 12 meters below St. Peter's Basilica . The Vatican Necropolis was formerly a burial cemetery adjacent to the Circus of Caligula on the southern slope of the Vatican Hill. It was illegal to bury the dead within the city walls, according to Roman law. As a result, burial places arose along the roadsides outside the city cemeteries. If you are in the Vatican you would be remiss if you didn't go on a tour of the Necropolis. Here is all you need to know about going on Scavi Tours, or the Vatican Necropolis tour!

Why take Vatican Scavi tours?

• Taking a Vatican Necropolis tour is an enlightening experience as you can explore the detailed network of mausoleums and tombs that lie directly beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.
• What makes the Necropolis is a must-visit is simply the fact that there is no area in the Vatican City that is more important than the supposed ultimate resting place of St Peter. A Vatican necropolis tour is definitely worth the money, even if it is not as well-known as the museums, Basilica, or Sistine Chapel.
• Each day, just 250 people are allowed to enter, in groups of 12. This is done is to protect the ancient site from being destroyed by mass tourism, making this a truly unique and personalized experience.

Plan your visit to the Vatican Necroplis

Vatican Necropolis is open from Mondays to Fridays from  9 AM to 6 PM. On Saturdays, the Necropolis is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Last Entry: 3:30 PM (From April to September, 4.15 PM)

Closed: All Sundays and Vatican Holidays.

Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

• Metro: Take Line A to Ottaviano-S. Pietro station.
• Train: Take the train from Roma Termini to the St Pietro train station.
• Bus: Bus numbers 40, 64, 62, and 81 will take you to the Vatican.

• Book your tickets early as the Necropolis allows only a maximum of 250 visitors per day.
• Choose a guided tour so you can learn all about the Vatican Necropolis while you explore it.
• Access is granted only to those who are 15 years and above.  
• Follow the appropriate dress code so that you will not be denied entry.
• Luggage, suitcases, bags, packages, and containers must be left in the cloakroom.
• Reach the meeting point at least 10 minutes before   the visit.

Book Vatican guided tours and tickets

What lies under the vatican city.

Beneath the Vatican City, or more accurately under St. Peter's Basilica, you will find the Vatican Necropolis. The site was discovered during the early years of the pontificate of Pius XII Pacelli (1939-1958), who undertook a series of archaeological explorations in the area of ​​the Vatican Confession and in the center of the Sacred Caves.

On Scavi tours or Vatican Necropolis tours, visitors are led down three levels to a 1st century AD Pagan burial ground with a few small clay and stone repositories, followed by the 5th century Pagan and Christian combined burial ground with several medium-sized stone mausolea and other ruins, including a fractured piece of a large triumphal arch.

Level 1: Dating back to the 4th century BC, this level was originally an Etruscan necropolis, used for burials by the ancient civilization that predated the Romans in Italy. The most notable find here is the  Banditaccia Tomb , a large chamber tomb with painted walls depicting scenes of daily life and religious rituals.

Level 2: This level dates from the 1st to the 4th centuries AD and contains a mix of pagan and early Christian burials.

Level 3: This level dates from the 4th century AD and is named after Emperor Constantine, who built the first St. Peter's Basilica on this site. The most important find here is the  Tomb of St. Peter , which is believed to contain the remains of the first pope.

The papal grotto is included within this labyrinth, as is a 12th-century early Christian church with grates in the roof that go up into the basilica's floor.

St. Peter’s Tomb

According to ancient tradition, Apostle Peter was martyred in the year 64 or 67, during the reign of Emperor Nero, at the Circus of Nero. . It is, hence, believed that Peter was buried in the necropolis since it was close to the sight of his martyrdom.

Within the Necropolis that comprises multiple graves and Papal tombs is a small area named with the letter P that is believed to be the original burial site of the apostle. About a hundred years after the death of Peter, a shrine was constructed over his grave. The shrine is located adjacent to the Red Wall of the necropolis.

Brief history of Vatican Scavi

• The undergound originally served as an Etruscan necropolis, a burial ground dating back to the 4th century BC. Evidence of tombs, pottery, and other artifacts hint at their culture and rituals.
• With the rise of Christianity and the building of the first St. Peter's Basilica in the 4th century AD, the necropolis evolved into a Christian burial ground. Early popes and martyrs were likely laid to rest here.
• The exact location of St. Peter's tomb remained a mystery for centuries. Legends and traditions shrouded the necropolis in intrigue, attracting pilgrims and sparking archaeological interest.
• Limited excavations occurred sporadically, but systematic exploration wasn't undertaken until the late 19th century.
• The discovery of the Red Mausoleum, a large pagan structure possibly built for an emperor, and the Banditaccia Tomb, an Etruscan chamber tomb with vibrant artwork, became major highlights.

Frequently asked questions about Vatican Scavi tours

Yes, you can visit the Vatican Necropolis. You can book you Vatican Necropolis tours online.

You can purchase Vatican Necropolis tour tickets online. Booking Scavi tours online is highly recommended as you can guarantee your spot and have a hassle-free experience.

Besides being the final resting place of the first pope, St Peter, the Vatican necropolis is an underground labyrinthine mausoleum that houses the remains of ancient Romans and Etruscans.

Yes, the Scavi institution provides a licensed guide to accompany visitors on their Necropolis tours.  

The Vatican Necropolis is open between 9 AM and 6 PM from Monday to Friday and from 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays. It is closed on Sundays.

A tour of just the Vatican Necropolis takes about 1 - 2 hours.

St. Peter’s Tomb is located just below St. Peter’s Basilica, within the Vatican Necropolis on level 3.

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History of the Vatican

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The Necropolis

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Written and read by Pietro Zander

The Vatican Necropolis is located below the level of the Vatican Grottoes, at a depth of between three and eleven metres in relation to the floor of the central nave of the basilica. Here it is possible to rediscover the most significant historical and archaeological evidence of Saint Peter’s Basilica, and to retrace the ancient earthen road leading to the tomb of the Prince of the Apostles.

The discovery of the site dates back to the early years of the pontificate of Pius XII (1939-1958), who wanted to undertake a series of archaeological explorations in the area of the Vatican Confessio and in the central part of the sacred grottoes.

At the time of the excavations, brick buildings from the second century came to light, which, once open, became in the fourth century the foundations of the first Petrine Basilica. Indeed, the necropolis was still in use when it was covered by Constantine, who ordered the demolition of the upper parts of the sepulchral buildings and their foundation, resolute in his desire to build the largest basilica in the west exactly on the tomb of Peter: a basilica divided into five naves by 88 columns, a majestic temple that had its floor at the same level as the “Trophy of Gaius”.

It was a grandiose undertaking, that involved the movement of over 40,000 cubic metres of earth to level the double slope of the Vatican hill, which ascended slightly from east to west, but which also sloped deeply from north to south in the direction of the valley of the circus. The necropolis, which extended over the southern slopes of the hill, ended up beneath the central nave of the basilica, and it was therefore essential to demolish the top of the tomb buildings that exceeded the height established for the floor of the new church. While on the one hand the basilica built at the behest of Constantine and Pope Sylvester brought about the end of the Roman necropolis, on the other, it assured its conservation up to the present day.

An approximate calculation of the inhumation and incineration tombs suggests that 22 tomb buildings, unearthed during excavations, were designed to accommodate around 1000 burials. Of this multitude of men, women and especially children, inscriptions have handed down to us the names of some individuals from imperial freedmen families.

© Fabric of Saint Peter

See information to visit the Vatican Necropolis

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Vatican Necropolis Tours | Under the Vatican City

What is vatican necropolis.

Deep in the depths of Vatican City lies an ancient Roman burial ground referred to as the Vatican Necropolis. The word necropolis is a Greek term, quite literally meaning the “city of the dead.” The Vatican Necropolis is located about 5 to 12 meters below St. Peter’s Basilica. Although hidden for many years, excavations during the 1940s revealed the existence of the necropolis. We’ve put together a guide to visiting the Vatican Necropolis including its origins, what to see, tips, & more! 

Book Tickets to St. Peter's Basilica

Why visit the vatican necropolis.

• Discover ancient Roman burial grounds hidden beneath the grounds of Vatican City.
• Explore a detailed network of mausoleums and tombs from the 1st and 4th centuries. 
• Archaeologists believe that this site contains the original tomb of St. Peter himself! 
• You will also get a close look at Emperor Constantine’s Temple, 15 mausoleums, and tombs from Pagan and Christian burial grounds. 

Your Vatican Necropolis Tickets Explained

Only around 250 visitors per day are permitted to enter the Necropolis. So, If you wish to visit the Vatican Necropolis, plan ahead. Purchase a Guided Tour of the Vatican Necropolis so you can explore the Scavi with the help of a local guide.

• With these tickets, you will be able to explore St. Peter's Basilica during the early morning hours.
• Climb to the very top. From Michelangelo’s dome enjoy the unparalleled views of the rolling green Castelli Romani hills, the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the Vatican.
• Make your way down to the Papal Sarcophagi along with an expert local guide who will provide you with interesting details and facts about the Papal Tombs
• Choose from an English, Spanish, French, or Italian-speaking expert guide.
• Super-Flexible Cancellation Policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours before the day of the tour for a full refund.

What's Inside the Vatican Necropolis?

Hidden beneath the treasured Basilica of St. Peter is the ancient city of the dead called the Vatican Necropolis. Excavations in the 1940s unearthed the remains of mausoleums, tombs, and even what is believed to be the grave of St. Peter himself. 

Inside the necropolis, you will find the 1st century Pagan burial site with small tombs made of clay and stone. Above this is a 5th century Pagan and Christian burial ground with many stone mausoleums and other ruins including a piece of a large arch. 

Between the two levels is a small mount with a hole dug into it, a spot believed to contain the bones of St. Peter, as well as the rock upon which the original basilica was first constructed. 

Origin of the Necropolis

Caligula’s Circus

The origins of the Vatican Necropolis are believed to date back to the time of the Etruscans buried the dead beyond the city walls. During this period, the law required bodies of the deceased to be buried outside of the urban area. This means that during its inception, this area was technically not a part of the city. They built a necropolis on a nearby bill called the Viaticum. The “city of the dead,” as its name suggests, primarily served as Pagan and Christian burial grounds, which were open-air sites.

After the Etruscan civilization fell to the Romans, the Vatican territory became part of the city of Rome. Emperor Caligula built a circus adjacent to the necropolis. The circus was used by Romans for horse races and games, as well as Christian martyrdom. A huge Egyptian obelisk was raised in the center of the circus, which stands today at St. Peter's Square.

Construction of Old St. Peter

According to tradition, the Apostle Peter was crucified by Emporer Nero between 64 or 67 AD in the Circus. It is believed, thanks to the necropolis' proximity to the Circus of Nero, that St. Peter is buried here. After the Edict of Milan in the year 313, Emperor Constantine began the construction of a commemorative basilica, that has come to be known as the Old St. Peter's Basilica. The basilica was located just above the supposed grave of the Apostle Peter. Emperor Constantine I excavated part of the necropolis to create enough flat land for the foundation of the church. As a result, the necropolis was filled with soil and building debris.

Excavations of the Necropolis

Excavations under St. Peter’s Basilica began in the 1940s and carried on until 1949, under the sponsorship of the Vatican. This work began at the request of then Pope Pius XI, who wished to be buried near the grave of Peter the Apostle. Initially, the excavation began with the aim of locating the actual burial site of St. Peter. 

After years of uncovering the remains of the site, certain areas of Emperor Constantine’s Basilica were found along with 15 mausoleums, and Pagan and Christian tombs. Many former Pope’s are also believed to be buried at the Vatican Necropolis making this site a holy one, visited by many every year. 

St. Peter’s Grave

Ancient tradition holds that the Apostle Peter was declared a martyr in the year 64 or 67, during the reign of Emperor Nero. It is believed that Peter was buried in the necropolis since it was close to the Circus of Nero - where he was martyred. Inside the necropolis is a small area named with the letter P, which archaeologists regard as the original burial site of the apostle. About a hundred years after the death of Peter, a shrine was constructed over his grave. The shrine is located adjacent to the Red Wall of the necropolis.

Plan Your Visit to Vatican Necropolis

• Monday-Friday: 9 AM to 6 PM
• Saturday: 9 AM to 5 PM

The last visit starts at 3:30 PM (From April to September the last visit starts at 4.15 PM)

Closed: All Sundays and Vatican Holidays.

• Metro: Take Line A of the Rome Metro. The closest station to the Vatican is the Ottaviano-S. Pietro station.
• Train: Take the train from Roma Termini to the St Pietro train station.
• Bus: Bus numbers 40 and 64 frequently stop at the Vatican. Buses 62 and 81 will also take you to the Vatican.

Requests to visit the Vatican Necropolis should be sent to the Excavations Office. If the person submitting the request is not the actual visitor, the visitor's name and e-mail address should be submitted along with the form.

The requests should be submitted in written form by faxing the form to 39 06 69873017, or by visiting the Excavations Office in person. The exact number of participants, names of participants, the language of the guide, possible dates that you would like to visit, and E-mail address, or fax number, or a complete postal address should also be provided.

Or, you can skip the hassle and book a guided tour ticket to the Necropolis.

• Reach the meeting point at least 10 minutes before   the scheduled time of the visit.
• The Necropolis is located beneath St. Peter's Basilica. And, the Necropolis is a sacred place. Dress appropriately.
• Luggage, large bags backpacks /cameras have to be deposited in the locker area available to the right of the façade of the Basilica on the ground floor.

Map of the Necropolis

Necopolis Map Index

A. C Polilius Heracla

B. Tomb of Fannia Redempta

C. L Tullius Zethus

D. Opus Reticulatum

F. The First Tomb of the Caetennii

H. Tomb of the Valerii

L. Caetennia Higia

M. Cristo Sole

- Shrine of St Peter (Trophy of Gaius)

- Graffiti Wall G (Bones of St Peter)

Q. Area for inhumation

T. Traebellena Flaccilla

Z. Tomb of the Egyptians

X.  Mausoleum Chi

Ψ. Mausoleum Psi

Virtual Tour of the Necropolis

If you can’t make it to the Vatican Necropolis in person, you can always take a virtual tour of this secret world hidden beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. 

The virtual tour of Vatican Necropolis takes you through all the major areas underground with just the click of a button. Navigate your way through the Necropolis with a 360° view, while on a virtual tour .

Visitor Tips

Here are some pro tips to keep in mind while planning your visit to Vatican Necropolis. 

• Book your tickets early! Vatican Necropolis attracts many visitors every day and the tickets can sometimes be booked for months.
• Vatican Necropolis allows only a maximum of 250 visitors per day. Plan your visit and book tickets in advance so you don’t miss out on this must-see attraction. 
• Tour groups include only a small number of approximately 12 people and access is granted strictly only to those who are 15 years of age and above.  
• Choose a guided tour on your visit so you can learn about the history of the Vatican Necropolis while you explore it. The guided tours last for around one and a half hours. 
• Keep in mind that the conditions at the Necropolis might not be suitable for all. The temperature and humidity are much higher underground so if you have any pre-existing health conditions, you might want to sit this one out. 

All Your Questions About Vatican Necropolis Answered

A. Yes, you can visit the Vatican Necropolis and explore what’s inside.

A. You can book tickets to the Vatican Necropolis directly with the Scavi office.

A. Yes, the Scavi institution provides a licensed guide to accompany visitors.   

A. The Vatican Necropolis is open between 9 AM and 6 PM from Monday to Friday and from 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays. It is closed on Sundays.

A. No. Photography is not permitted inside the Vatican Necropolis.

A. No. Sadly, the underground ruins of the Vatican Necropolis are not accessible to people with reduced mobility.

A. A tour of just the Vatican Necropolis takes about 1 - 2 hours.

A. A cemetery is a burial site for the deceased, while a necropolis is a large cemetery constructed in an elaborate manner, located outside the city. Necropolis or nekropolis, refers to the "city of the dead".

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Home » Vatican City Area Attractions » Vatican Necropolis Info & Hours

Vatican Necropolis Info & Hours

The Vatican Necropolis stands nearly 32 feet below St. Peter’s Basilica, under the Vatican Grottoes, and must not be confused with the Necropolis of Via Triumphalis an underground cemetery of members of the poorer classes, located between the Vatican City and Castel Sant’Angelo .

The Vatican Necropolis under St. Peter’s is also known in Italian as the “Scavi” of St. Peter’s , because of the excavations sponsored by the Vatican that occurred between 1939 and 1949 under Pius XII.

This necropolis is especially known for being the early burial place of St. Peter the Apostle and for housing what are believed to be his remains. The Highlight of the visit are the (alleged) remains of St. Peter Apostle.

Visit to the Vatican Necropolis under the St Peter’s Basilica (or Tour of the Scavi) must be arranged directly with the Excavations Office. Early reservation is highly recommended due to the limited number of people admitted at a time. Groups size vary from 10 to 15 people. The tour lasts 1,5 hours and is accessible only by people older than 15 years old.

Keep reading the “How to visit” section for info, price, and reservation!

Visit St. Peter’s Basilica after the Scavi Tour skipping the line

At the end of Scavi Tour the guide will allow you to pass straight into the Popes’ Tombs Area (Vatican Grottoes). From there you can walk by the entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica. You will see the steps of the Basilica on your left as you walk toward the exit. Make a left turn up the steps and enter the Basilica. This way you will bypass all the people waiting in line to see the church.

How to Visit

How to reach.

• St. Peter’s Scavi Facts
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Attraction Overview

1 plan your visit in advance.

– Early reservation is highly recommended due to the limited number of people admitted at a time. Groups size vary from 10 to 15 people. The tour lasts 1,5 hours.

2 RESERVATION

Reservations must be made in writing only by fax or email [email protected] . The request must contain compulsorily the following information: 1. Exact number of participants; 2. Names of participants; 3. Language requested; 4. Possible dates *when the Excavations Office can assign your visit (the time will be determined by the Office). *please always write in full the name of the month (e.g.: from 01 January 2013 to 08 January 2013) 5. E-mail address, or fax number, or a complete postal address

3 DRESS CODE AND INFO BEFORE VISITING

The day of your visit you should arrive at the Excavations Office at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time. The Excavations Office is located on the Via Paolo VI (outside of the Colonnade, just to the south [left], near the entrance to the General Audience Hall.) Upon arrival, present the Swiss Guards with your letter of confirmation received from the Office which indicates the scheduled time of your visit.

Clothing should be appropriate for a sacred place: long trousers/slacks/jeans for men; dresses that reach below the knees or long trousers/slacks/jeans for women; shoulders must be covered for all.

Luggage, large bags, backpacks and cameras are not allowed inside. There’s a deposit available and is free of charge.

OPENING HOURS

Closed On Sunday and Vatican Holidays (1st and 6 January / December: 8; from 24 to 27; 31st / February 11 / March 13 and 19 / 17 to 23 April / May 1st and 29 / June 19 and 29 / from 14 to 16 August / 1 and 2 November /

Opening Hours

Monday-Friday 9:00 am – 6:00 pm Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm NOTE: Normally, the last visit start at 15:30 (16:15 April to September)

TICKETS INFO

The cost of the individual ticket, including the contribution for the Guide, is 13€ (approximately $ 16.50 USD)* No reductions in price will be given for any reason.

Requests may be submitted in written form by fax +39 06 69873017, or by visiting the Excavations Office in person (using the south [left] entrance, just outside of the Colonnade).

ACCESSIBILITY

Wheelchair Accessibility Service: The site is not accessible.

Reservation: Fax +39 06 69873017 Email: [email protected]

Info: +39 06 69 885 318

1 CLOSEST BUS STOPS TO ST. PETER’S SCAVI

Bus lines (stop “cavalleggeri/san pietro”):.

34 46 64 98 109F 881 916 982

Metro Station:

Address: 00120 Città del Vaticano, Rome, Italy Get directions from Google Maps

Meeting point for the Scavi Tour: The day of your visit you should arrive at the Excavations Office at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time. The Excavations Office is located on the Via Paolo VI (outside of the Colonnade, just to the south [left], near the entrance to the General Audience Hall.) Upon arrival, present the Swiss Guards with your letter of confirmation received from the Office which indicates the scheduled time of your visit..

Vatican Necropoli

St. peter’s scavi: unveiling the necropolis under the basilica.

It all started when Pope Pius XI asked to be buried as close as possible to the Tomb of St. Peter Apostle under St. Peter’s Basilica.

Works to enlarge the burial chamber of the Pope brought to life an entire necropolis. When the archaeologists started digging they discovered a double line of burial buildings, laying on one slope of the Vatican Hill. You must think about this necropolis as an open-air cemetery, hence very different from the catacombs. Read More…

Scavi of St. Peter FAQ

Are you wondering something about this landmark in Rome? Go to our Q&A section and post your question. It will be answered by an official Rome tour guide!

Rome Free Itineraries

Free Walking Tour of Trastevere Rome

Duration: 3 hours

Tickets: Ticket-free

Accessibility: Partially accessible to people on wheelchairs

Best Time to Visit: Winter: 10.30 pm – 4.00 pm / Summer: 8:30 am – 2:30 pm

Ancient Rome Self Guided Tour

Tickets: not needed

Accessibility: Partially Accessible to people on wheelchairs

Best Time to Visit: 2.30 pm - 6.30 pm

Discovering Rome’s Squares & Fountains

Tickets: ticket-free

Accessibility: Wheelchair Accessible

Best Time to Visit: 2.00pm - 6.00pm

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St. Peter’s Scavi: Unveiling the Necropolis under the Basilica

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Vatican Necropolis, Vatican City

Excavations office

Virtual visit.

Explore the Vatican Necropolis online by clicking the following link:

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Fabbrica di San Pietro

Excavations Office 00120 Vatican City State

email: [email protected]

Tel.:  + 39 06 69 885 318

Entrance Fee

Monday – Friday:  9:00 - 18:00

Saturday:  9:00 - 14:00

Cost of the ticket

The cost of the individual ticket , including the contribution for the Guide, is 13,00 Euros (approximately $ 16.50 USD)

No reductions in price will be given for any reason.

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Vatican Necropolis Scavi Tour

• Tour highlights
• Tour itinerary
• Tour Details

What to Expect

PRIVATE TOUR

Enjoy your tour with your own private tour expert at your party's disposal only

Meet&Greet at your hotel/accomodation. Transfer to the tour site included

NOT AVAILABLE

Wednesday, Sunday

ENTRANCE TICKETS

Entrance tickets are included! Enjoy your tour!

GENERIC INFORMATION

Children below 15 years of age not allowed. Not recommended for people who suffer from claustrophobia.

• Blue badge certified  private tour guide
• Exclusive  VIP access  to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
• Access to the Vatican Necropolis
• Reservation fees
• Meet & greet your private guide at your hotel or accommodation
• One Way Transfer  from your hotel/accommodation to the tour site
• Drop off back to your hotel/accommodation after the tour

Sites you’ll visit

• Vatican Museums
• Sistine Chapel
• Vatican Necropolis
• St. Peter's Basilica
• St. Peter's Square
• Vatican Museums Famous throughout the world, the multiple galleries and rooms can take days to visit although only just over a third of the art that Popes throughout the centuries have collected is on show to the public. The museums house an immense collection that includes some of the most important masterpieces of Renaissance art in the world along with some of the most precious Ancient Rome and Egyptian statues.
• Sistine Chapel Definitely the most known work of art of all time, the frescoes by Michelangelo are considered the finest work of art ever created by Man. The iconic narration of the vault dedicaded to the Holy Creation and the Bible is a pendant of the huge wall scene (60 feet tall) just behind the altar: the “Last Judgment” with its 391 figures. The side walls welcomed Michelangelo’s creation with pre-existing stories of the Life of Jesus and Moses by Botticelli and the Renaissance masters. Despite the religious dedication, the meaning of the Sistine Chapel trascends the time and space of the Church and reveals its universal meaning for mankind.
• Vatican Necropolis Hidden below the Vatican city is a Necropolis dating back to the Imperial age of Rome. This special site was only discovered in the mid 1940's due to the Pope of then wanting to be buried as close as possible to Peter the Apostle. More of the Necropolis was unearthed as recently as 2003, who knows what else is hidden below!
• St. Peter's Basilica The largest Basilica in the world is also home to worldwide masterpieces like the famous Pietà by Michelangelo! it even houses an underground crypt for Popes, of which can be visited. The Basilica has a big influence from Michelangelo and you can see his art work throughout. The Basilica was originally built above the tomb of the Prince of the Apostles, where the Pope visits every Christmas or Easter Time.
• St. Peter's Square Completely designed by the master of the Baroque Era Gian Lorenzo Bernini, this worldwide famous square is one of the most iconic places in the word! This is the place where the Popes offer their audiences and blessings, and where the Christians use to wait and see the “white smoke” coming out from the roof of the Sistine Chapel, when a new Pope is elected. 140 statues of Popes, Angels and Saints look down on us from the balaustrades of the colonnades and extend their embrace to the city and all mankind right in the heart of the sacred side of Rome.

Tour description

A true  VIP experience  in the heart of the Papal State: one of the most rich and beautiful art collections of the world at your complete disposal!

With our  Vatican Necropolis Scavi Tour , long lines and waiting times will be a distant memory, giving you all the time you need to enjoy the worldwide famous masterpieces housed in the Museums.

In fact, with our  skip-the-line tickets , you will bypass the queue and get inside the museums before the crowds, with ease and style.

The tour winds through the Vatican Galleries, passing by the Raphael rooms, to reach the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s masterpiece: with the help of your  private guide , this gem won’t have any secrets anymore.

After looking at the sky, you’ll go underground: the  Vatican Necropolis , one of the most exclusive areas to visit, awaits you, where you will join a small group to explore the Scavi.

The tour will end with the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica, a magnificent expression of baroque/mannerist architecture, and St. Peter’s Square.

Useful information

• Not available on Sunday.
• Not suggested on Wednesday morning due to the Papal Audience.
• Even with your ‘Skip the Line’ ticket you are NOT exempt from the line (queue) for the Security Check. As you enter in the Museums all visitors and their bags have to be screened under metal detectors and to be checked by the Vatican guards.
• It is not possible to bring large bags or backpacks, as well as bulky bags, big umbrellas and selfie-sticks. All weapons, hazardous or flammable objects are strictly forbidden.
• Food and beverages are permitted but must be checked.
• Appropriate clothing is recommended, especially in high season when visiting some important holy sites, such as Basilicas and Churches. Shoulders and knees have to be covered (Sistine Chapel included).
• Be advised: the underground paths are really narrow and may be problematic for people suffering from claustrophobia.

Full Refund Cancellation Policy

• Dolce Vita policy is applied on all Standard Bookings placed more than 72 hours from the date of the event. We provide all our customers with Refundable Terms up to 72 hours from the date of the event for any reason. To apply for a refund including where your tour is cancelled or changed by Eyes of Rome®, please contact our customer service team at [email protected] .
• Peace of Mind policy is applied on Selected Bookings and on all Bookings placed within 72 hours from the date of the event. We provide all our customers with Refundable Terms so if you are unable to attend your booking due to unforeseen circumstances outside of your control you may be entitled to a refund - please see our full set of Refundable Terms and Conditions here . To apply for a refund, please find the instructions on how to apply in the booking confirmation email you received after payment.

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Vatican Necropolis Tour

Top attractions, more things to do, explore by city, vatican underground tour.

Be one of the privileged few to be welcomed on an exclusive Vatican Necropolis Tour (Necropolis VIP Tour fits as a better name! Only 250 people are able to reserve Vatican Necropolis tickets per day!  When you join a Vatican Crypt Tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore these underground graves in the heart of Vatican City. Snagging a couple of tickets directly from the Vatican isn't the easiest process though, and will require some time and patience. Save yourself the hassle of applying for tickets and let us take care of the reservations for you.  Dive in and explore the unexplored areas of the Vatican! Perfectly located beneath St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican grottoes graves. Venture underground to see the tomb of St Peter, burial ground, and mosaics from the second century BC. This guided tour needs to be first on your list! With limited availability , it's highly recommended to reserve your Tour of the Necropolis at least 2 months in advance of your visit. If you're thinking that the wait isn't worth it, head over to the official website of the Vatican for a Vatican Necropolis Virtual Tour to get a taste of what you'll see. The sneak peek Vatican Catacombs virtual tour will wet your taste buds, but an expert guided tour will let you dive in for the full meal! Nothing beats it! Best of all, you can enjoy the exclusiveness of being one of the selected few to enter!

Vatican Necropolis Tour Highlights

Picture perfect #undergroundmoments, vatican necropolis tickets: buying tips, st peter's tomb tour tips, vatican tombs tour: prepare your visit, quick facts, vatican city, underground crypt, activity type, vatican catacombs tour, yearly visitors, 10 million +, high season, june - september, currency required, european euro, dotravel pick, st. peter's basilica & necropolis tour.

• Learn the remarkable story of the Vatican Catacombs! Tour through the underground cemetery, excavations, around the mausoleums, and final resting place of St. Peter, and his alleged tomb. Allow your personal guide to explain all the hidden secrets underground. 
• Uncover St. Peter's tomb , housing the bones of Peter the Apostle.
• Combine two tours in one! Enjoy the Necropolis and St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour or the Vatican and Colosseum Tour , for example.
• Along with an expert guide, your Vatican Necropolis Map will help lead you through one of the most fascinating underground crypts in the world.
• Piazza Sant Pietro! Stand right outside the Vatican museum in all its glory. Either during the day or at night, this spot is worth the shot every single time.
• Saint Peter’s Square from the Dome is the perfect panoramic to capture the city views. Be sure to get into the frame too!
• A picture from the Vatican Gardens where you can capture nature and a selfie all at the same time is a must!
• Book a Vatican package deal for the Vatican museum, Sistine Chapel, and visits to the Necropolis; this will surely save you time and money!
• Vatican Necropolis tickets (or Scavi tour tickets if you wish) for reserved entry , can be obtained through its main office via email. However, be advised, the process to obtain tickets isn’t the most hassle-free. To avoid stress, it’s best to book an organized tour; they take care of obtaining your reserved entry for you.
• Getting your hands on a Scavi tour ticket is guaranteed to make you feel like you have just cashed in on the lottery. Book early to guarantee entry and get ready to enjoy your small group tour with a private feel.
• You may think the crypts would be cold, however, this is not the case when it comes to the Necropolis. Be wary of the temperature and humidity on the Vatican Excavation Tour. It gets hotter as you go down. Bring a bottle of water and fan to keep cool.
• One amazing hack! Visit Vatican Necropolis Via Triumphalis for a great extended tour of these graves on the Roman burial site. Dive deeper into the history and see more of the hidden secrets lurking underground.
• Vatican Necropolis Entrance: Finding your way to the Excavations office doesn’t have to cause a headache. If flustered, feel free to ask for the ´Scavi Office´ along the way.
• When you book your tickets to the Scavi, it’s best to confirm the opening times ahead as changes in hours are possible.
• Vatican Necropolis Scavi Tour Rules
• A Vatican Tombs tour is restricted to those aged 15 and over.  
• The Vatican Necropolis Tours has a strict dress code. No shirts or shorts allowed. Even in the Summer heat, shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Leave your camera away in your pocket. No Vatican Necropolis photos can be taken once inside.
• You must arrive 15-20 minutes early.
• Bring your ID ; identification is checked before entry.
• All bags and purses go through the security check.
• Services (Inside The Vatican)
• The cloakroom service room is free of charge.
• Plenty of baby changing facilities and nursing rooms are available on site. 
• Restaurants and cafés can be found throughout the museum.
• Shop the Gift shops , where you can also easily find The Necropolis Book! Learn about the Temple of Christianity, its religious art, and Peter’s Tomb.

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How long is the scavi tour ▽ △, is the tour of the vatican and the scavi tour different ▽ △, related articles, rome travel tips: tourist survival guide, ultimate hacks: best way to see the vatican, hidden gems in rome.

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Vatican necropolis, excavations below St. Peter’s Basilica

Table of contents

The Vatican Necropolis (Scavi) 

The fascinating descent into the Necropolis   is one of the great experiences you can live in your visit to the Vatican. It is possibly the least known visit, but those who have the chance to do it agree that it is one of the most exciting   moments of the trip. In this article we will get to the details.

We have to go back to Rome during the times of Emperor Nero, in AD 64 and to a disastrous date: the fire caused in the city and the executions of Christians in the Circus, counting apostle Peter as one of the victims. The old Via Cornelia  served as a burial place for the saint and for hundreds of devotees of Christ, a number that grew year by year.

It was not until 319 that Emperor Constantine chose this place for the construction of a basilica. The existing catacombs were not destroyed but remained below the level of the temple and were covered with earth and forgotten for centuries.

Digging works

In 1949, with the support of Pope Pius XII   and Monsignor Ludwig Kaas, secretary of the Fabbrica di San Pietro, the excavation of archaeological remains located under the present basilica were initiated, with the goal of finding the remains of Saint Peter.

The result was the discovery of a series of Graves  , excellently preserved.

Levels underneath St Peter’s Basilica

Under the ground of the great Basilica of St Peter there are   two levels :

–   The Vatican Grottoes,  in which we will find the tombs and chapels of kings, queens and popes from the tenth century onwards.

–   The Necropolis, one level down, from the time before Constantine as we have described, and further down to 11 meters below the Basilica.

Excavations which are open to the public include 22 mausoleums in an area of nearly 100 m. long. There we will find graves of wealthy commoners, with decorative elements and  tombstones  showing the name of the family. Do not forget that this necropolis remained through the transition from paganism to Christianity; therefore we’ll find pagan iconography, especially referring to Dionysus and Bacchus.

The visit will consist of a tour through each Mausoleum, communicated with a central corridor, up to a point known as     field “P”.

The point “P” is under the papal altar of the present Basilica   and is formed by a   small square   4×8 meters paved with mosaics. On the right side, after a hole in the wall in which a hollow cavity is observed; human remains and a fabric with gold threads were found. Beside him, an inscription dated  from the year 160 reads “Petro Eni” in Greek: “Peter is here”.

How to visit the Vatican Necropolis

Book your entry tickets to Vatican Necropolis with one of Rome´s top tour companies.

Check Rates and Availability

Submit a request for yourself via Scavi Office

The procedure to book a tour has its peculiarities but it is relatively straightforward, provided the requirements established by the Office of Excavations are met   Fabbrica di San Pietro. The process can be summarized in these points:

– The daily number of visitors  is restricted to 250 people, in small groups of about 12 people and always with a guide. The tour lasts one hour and a half and it is done in groups which share the same language.

– Access for children under 15 years is not permitted, nor is recommended for people with claustrophobia   or suffering from diseases that aggravates with moisture.

– The application for the tour is completed in a written form   to   [email protected], fax +39 06 69873017, or in person at the Office of the Excavations at the south entrance (left side) just outside the colonnade of St. Peter’s Square. The request must state the name of visitors, number, preferred language, date range for the visit and email, fax or postal address.

– The answer will be received in the medium used for the application the visitor will be given an exact day and time for his visit.

– The price of the visit is 13 euros, which can be paid in the way stated by the Excavations Office in its message.

Tips for visiting

– Visitors enter through the  Excavations Office.  10 minutes before the scheduled time, you will access the entrance showing your ticket to the Swiss Guard at the door. Do not go further in advance, it is possible that you will not be able to enter, Essential!: take your booking voucher printed with you.

– The dress code should be suitable  to the sanctity of the place (long trousers or long skirts, covered shoulders…)

– You are not allowed to enter with camera.

– The tour ends at the Vatican Grottoes.

– Take into consideration the age of visitors. Entry for children 15 and older is allowed. We recommend bringing official identification, especially in case of doubt due to the appearance of the child.

– The entrance to the Necropolis has nothing to do with the Vatican Museums. Their systems and offices are different.

– The visit is guided; you cannot walk freely around the area.

– On the map we mark the point where the excavations access office is located.

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The Vatican broadens public access to an ancient Roman necropolis

Chloe Veltman

Visitors explore the Roman Necropolis at The Vatican. Gregorio Borgia/AP hide caption

Visitors explore the Roman Necropolis at The Vatican.

The Vatican is now making it easier for members of the general public to visit the Vatican Necropolis , a Roman burial ground located a few feet beneath St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

The more than 10,000 square foot site contains marble sarcophagi, tombs dating from between the first and fourth centuries A.D., and Roman frescoes and mosaics.

The Vatican is broadening access to the necropolis for its exhibition called Life and Death in the Rome of the Caesars, which opened Friday . The Vatican Museums did not immediately respond to NPR's request for more information.

Speaking in a video for EuroNews , Vatican Museums director Barbara Jatta said in the past, organized tours of the necropolis were generally only granted to approved groups of academics, students and other specialists.

Now, a gate overlooking Risorgimento Square has been opened along the Vatican's walls, enabling any ticket-buyer to freely explore the site.

A mosaic at the Necropolis. Gregorio Borgia/AP hide caption

A mosaic at the Necropolis.

"The individual visitor can come without the help of a guide," Jatta said. "They can grasp one of the world's most unique archaeological sites."

The Vatican began excavating the necropolis in the 1950s.

People who were enslaved are buried there.

"Some of them, we understood from the epigraphs, must have been imperial property, because their master [the Emperor Nero] is often mentioned," Vatican Museums archaeologist Leonardo Di Blasi told EuroNews , adding that the graves of artisans and other lower-middle-class Roman citizens employed by Nero have also been discovered at the site.

The Vatican Necropolis is located outside Central Rome. Ancient Roman laws forbade burials within city limits for the sake of safety and hygiene.

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Visits to the Necropolis of the Via Triumphalis : new independent entrance from Piazza del Risorgimento

Perhaps few know that the section of the Vatican Walls facing Piazza del Risorgimento includes the Porta di Santa Rosa gateway, and that from that monumental entrance to the Vatican State (created by the sculptor Gino Giannetti and inaugurated in 2006), from next 17 November , it will be possible to directly access the famous archaeological area of the Necropolis along the Via Triumphalis to discover the fascinating “Life and Death in the Rome of the Caesars”. An easier and independent entrance to the excavations and its precious artefacts, which, thanks to this new access, will thus be closer to hand: a five-minute walk from the Metro A “Ottaviano” stop and a stone's throw from the bus or tram terminus in Piazza del Risorgimento. With a view to enhancing the value of its archaeological heritage and making it more accessible to tourists and pilgrims - also in anticipation of the important upcoming Jubilee - the Governorate of Vatican City State is promoting a guided tour experience to be added to the rich cultural offering managed by the Vatican Museums, confirming, for those who have more time, the already popular combined Museums & Necropolis or Vatican Gardens & Necropolis tours (the latter with exclusive access from Viale Vaticano). The visits, currently scheduled on Fridays and Saturdays , can be exclusively booked online on the official Vatican Museums website. The musealization of the area (2009-2013) was made possible thanks to the generous support offered by the Canada Chapter - specifically Paul and Carol Hill - of the Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museums, while the conservative operations in the archaeological site for the current year (2023) are supported by the magnanimity of the Washington DC Chapter .  

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