The Vatican Necropolis, located beneath St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, is historically rich archaeological site. As the final resting place of numerous popes, this ancient burial ground dates back to the Roman era and holds a profound significance within the Catholic Church. Discovered in the 1940s during excavation work, the necropolis contains intricately adorned mausoleums, sarcophagi, and precious artifacts from various periods of history. Visitors are granted rare access to this subterranean realm, providing an opportunity to delve into the profound heritage of the papacy and the enduring mysteries concealed beneath the majestic St. Peter's Basilica.
The Vatican Necropolis in a Nutshell
Handy information
| ⏰ Suggested Duration: | 1 hour |
| ☀️ Best Time to Visit: | Spring or Autumn |
| 💜 Must See: | 1st century AD Pagan burial ground |
| 🚇 Closest metro: | Cipro |
Must-see
1st century AD Pagan burial ground
5th century Christian stone mausoleums
Alleged tomb of St. Peter the Apostle
Things to know
Location: Vatican City
Guided Tours: Available
Depth: 5 - 12 metres
Architectural style: Roman
Opening Hours And Address
Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 6 PM
Saturday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Address : Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
Get Directions
What’s so incredible about the Vatican Necropolis?
- The Vatican Necropolis holds a rich historical significance as the final resting place of numerous popes and important figures throughout centuries, offering a unique insight into the early Christian era and the papacy's evolution.
- Being an underground burial ground with tombs and mausoleums dating back to Roman times, the Vatican Necropolis presents a rare and well-preserved archaeological site that fascinates history enthusiasts and scholars alike.
- As a deeply sacred place within the Catholic Church, visiting the necropolis provides a profound spiritual experience for believers and an opportunity to understand the religious customs and traditions associated with papal burials.
- A visit to the necropolis includes access to the spectacular St. Peter's Basilica, allowing visitors to witness its grandeur from a unique perspective and to appreciate the artistic masterpieces housed within.
- Due to its delicate nature, access to the Vatican Necropolis is restricted and limited to guided tours with a reservation. This exclusivity adds to the allure and makes it a truly extraordinary and sought-after destination for those seeking a deeper connection with history and spirituality.
Vatican Necropolis Tours
If you are visiting the Vatican, Vatican tickets must be purchased online and in advance if you don't want to stand in lines for hours. Including a Vatican Necropolis - Guided Tour is a good choice since you will get to explore the Scavi with the help of a local guide who knows the place inside-out and skip the ticket lines as well.
History of Vatican Necropolis
The history of the Vatican Necropolis is a journey through time, intertwined with the rise of Christianity and the evolution of the papacy. The origins of this sacred site can be traced back to the 1st century AD when Saint Peter, one of Jesus Christ's apostles and considered the first pope, was martyred in Rome. The location of his burial became a place of veneration for early Christians.
During the construction of the first St. Peter's Basilica in the 4th century, an extensive necropolis was discovered beneath the site. This underground burial ground was subsequently integrated into the foundations of the new basilica.
Over the centuries, various popes and important individuals of the Catholic Church were laid to rest in the Vatican Necropolis. The site's significance grew, solidifying its role as a hallowed place within the Christian world
Architecture of Vatican Necropolis
Situated beneath the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica, the necropolis boasts a unique underground design that reflects the burial practices of antiquity.
The site features a network of narrow passages and chambers adorned with beautifully crafted mausoleums and sarcophagi, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the Roman era. Intricate frescoes and inscriptions further enhance the artistic allure of the burial chambers, offering a glimpse into the beliefs and customs of the time.
The architecture also reflects the transition from pagan Roman practices to the Christian era, with the inclusion of early Christian symbols and motifs. Christian iconography, such as crosses and chi-rho symbols, adorn some of the tombs, underscoring the evolving religious significance of the site.
Top Highlights of the Vatican Necropolis
1Tomb of Saint Peter
The focal point of the necropolis is the traditional tomb of Saint Peter, considered the first pope. Pilgrims and visitors can witness this sacred site and reflect on its spiritual significance.
2Papal Tombs
Numerous tombs of popes, spanning centuries, are scattered throughout the necropolis. These final resting places offer insights into the lives and legacies of the pontiffs who shaped the Catholic Church.
3Ancient Mausoleums
Explore ancient Roman mausoleums and marvel at their elaborate architectural features, highlighting the fusion of Roman and Christian elements.
4The Grottoes
Beneath the main level of St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Grottoes house the tombs of various historical figures, including popes, queens, and kings.
5Inscriptions and Frescoes
Admire the intricate inscriptions and frescoes that adorn the burial chambers, providing valuable historical and artistic insights.
Best time to visit the Vatican Necropolis
The best time to visit the Vatican Necropolis is during the off-peak tourist seasons. To avoid the crowds and have a more serene experience, consider visiting in the spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October). During these months, the number of visitors is typically lower, allowing for a more intimate exploration of this historically significant site. It's essential to book a guided tour in advance, as access to the necropolis is restricted and requires a reservation. By choosing the right time to visit, you can fully immerse yourself in the profound history and spirituality of the Vatican Necropolis without the distractions of large crowds.
Vatican Necropolis Timings
Vatican Necropolis
• Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
St. Peter's Basilica
• April to September - 7:00 AM AM to 7:00 PM
• October to March - 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Getting there
1. Metro
The closest station to the Vatican is the Ottaviano-S. Pietro station. Line A of the Rome Metro stops at this station at regular intervals.
2. Train
The St Pietro train station is also an option and this train stop is perfect for those coming from Civitavecchia, the cruise port for Rome.
3. Bus
Bus numbers 40 and 64 frequently stop at the Vatican. Buses 62 and 81 also stop at the Vatican, although a little less frequently.
Vatican Necropolis Tours - Insider Tips
- In order to visit the Vatican Necropolis, you will need to make your reservation online. Ensure that you make your booking at least 3-4 weeks in advance in order to secure your place. The tickets for the Necropolis are high in demand and may get sold out if you book last minute. For a private tour, you will need to email the Fabric of Saint Peter directly.
- The Vatican Necropolis is completely underground with little ventilation and is dimly lit. Also, the temperatures and humidity levels would be slightly higher than on ground, so those people who have any serious medical concerns or suffer from claustrophobia should not visit.
- Since you will be entering a holy and sacred place, please make sure you wear appropriate clothing. For both men and women, knees and shoulders must be covered.
- Avoid travelling during the high season! During the months of June - August, the entire city gets very crowded and the lines to enter could go on forever. Try visiting during the off season to make the most out of your limited time.
- Note down all your questions beforehand as you may not get too much time to ask the guide during the tour.
- Give yourself at least 1.5 hours for the entire tour. You do not want to rush past all the attractions and find yourself regretting it later.
Restaurants Nearby
Tucked away in the charming neighborhood of Monteverde Vecchio, near Trastevere and AUR, you'll find Homebaked. This cozy little spot exudes the comforting ambiance of Grandma's kitchen. Indulge in the delightful offerings, including hearty homemade apple pie, pumpkin pie, brownies, cookies, cheesecake, cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, muffins, and a variety of other delicious treats.
At the heart of Rome, just a stone's throw away from Piazza San Pietro at Via delle Fornaci 11, you'll find Pizza Zizza—a genuine artistic laboratory of Roman pizza, boasting a truly unique flavor. Their innovative approach to pizza redefines the culinary experience, using only the finest, high-quality ingredients sourced from fresh and seasonal raw materials.
Pastasciutta stores are welcoming and meticulously designed, featuring an open production laboratory where fresh pasta is crafted before your eyes. Witnessing the chef preparing your meal or observing the pasta-making process adds a unique touch to the experience, celebrating the essence of Italian artisan tradition.
Other attractions around Vatican Necropolis
The Gardens of Vatican City are an enchanting oasis within the world's smallest independent state. Spanning over 57 acres, these lush gardens offer serene pathways, vibrant flowerbeds, and ancient fountains. Reserved for the Pope and visitors on special occasions, the gardens showcase nature's beauty amidst historical splendor.
Distance from Vatican Necropolis: 900 m
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The Pio-Clementine Museum, nestled within the Vatican Museums, houses a remarkable collection of classical antiquities and ancient sculptures. Founded by Popes Clement XIV and Pius VI, it showcases stunning artworks, including the famous Apollo Belvedere and Laocoön and His Sons, captivating visitors with the beauty of ancient civilizations.
Distance from Vatican Necropolis: 1.4 m
The Sistine Chapel, an iconic masterpiece within Vatican City, stands as a testament to Renaissance art and Michelangelo's genius. Its awe-inspiring frescoes, notably the ceiling's Creation of Adam, draw millions of visitors yearly, captivating them with the beauty and grandeur of one of history's greatest artistic achievements.
Distance from Vatican Necropolis: 1.4 km
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St. Peter's Basilica, a magnificent masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, graces the heart of Vatican City. As the world's largest church, it houses awe-inspiring artworks, including Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's baldachin. Its spiritual significance, historical grandeur, and artistic splendor make it a must-visit destination for travelers and pilgrims alike.
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The Leonardo da Vinci Experience Museum, located in the heart of Florence, pays tribute to the brilliance of the Renaissance polymath. With interactive exhibits and working models based on his inventions, visitors are immersed in da Vinci's world, gaining insight into his visionary mind and extraordinary contributions to art and science.
Distance from Vatican Necropolis: 750 m
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Castel Sant'Angelo, an ancient fortress-turned-museum, stands majestically along the Tiber River in Rome. Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, it later served as a papal residence and a fortified refuge. Its storied history and breathtaking views of the city attract visitors to explore its intriguing past and rich architectural heritage.
Distance from Vatican Necropolis: 1.1 km
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Hotels around the Vatican Necropolis
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