Vatican Necropolis
Vatican Necropolis things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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A Must-Visit in Your Lifetime in Rome!! Vatican Museums 🏛️🎨
Daniel
110
The Necropoli di San Pietro (St. Peter’s Necropolis), located beneath St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, offers a remarkable glimpse into the ancient history of early Christianity and Rome. This underground burial site dates back to the 1st century AD and is believed to be the final resting place of St. Peter, one of Jesus’ apostles and the first pope. Walking through the narrow, dimly lit corridors is an awe-inspiring experience. The necropolis reveals beautifully preserved mausoleums, intricate frescoes, and ancient inscriptions, offering a sense of the devotion and reverence of early Christians. At its heart lies the Tropaion of Gaius, the site traditionally identified as St. Peter’s grave. This sacred space exudes profound historical and spiritual significance, connecting visitors with the foundations of Christianity. Visiting the necropolis requires advanced booking, as access is limited to preserve its delicate environment. For history and archaeology enthusiasts, it is an unforgettable journey through layers of time beneath one of the most iconic basilicas in the world.
Luciano Carvalho
10
In front of the Statue of Saint Longinus by Bernini in Saint Peter's Basilica, to our right as we look at the Altar, there is a descending staircase that leads under the Basilica, to the Grotte Vaticane. From there we can see the Tomb of Saint Peter which is under the Altar and protected behind glass. Also, there are the tombs of various Popes, among them the most recent interment, that of Pope Benedict XVI, on 5 January 2023. On the floor of the Basilica are the golden air vents for the crypt. Although photos are not allowed there, I couldn't resist and snapped a few in a hurry, and that too without quality. I have repeatedly submitted a request to Google Maps to add the place to the maps but it does not approve. This is not the Vatican Necropolis that is marked on the map inside the Basilica, although some have mistakenly uploaded photos from the Grotte Vaticane there, as I eventually did.
Orestis -
60
Visits are organized by the Excavations Office, which can be contacted via email. You will need to make payment before your ticket is confirmed. The guided tour (around 1hr 30mins) is led by an experienced tour guide. Suggest to come earlier as the tour starts on time (note: you will still need to pass through security clearance, before walking to the Excavations Office to get your ticket print-out). The tour focuses on the history of the Basilica and the Necropolis area. The main highlight is, of course, the Tomb of St. Peter, which the guide will point out to you. One advantage is you get to skip the queue and access the Basilica once the tour is over. Few additional notes: try not to come during the summer as it can be a sauna below. Breathing can be difficult as well. Access is not granted to those below the age of 14. And, phototaking is not allowed unfortunately.
Mo Iggy Loh
80
Very interesting tour under the Vatican to see the site of St Peter's tomb. Book in advance making sure you use the official site, pass through some security screens to the Ufficio Scavi. The tour guide was very interesting and knowledgeable - tours available in multiple languages and take around one hour or so. During COVID it's necessary to have a vaccination Green Pass. We also had to wear FFP2/N95 masks and they provided plastic gloves to wear. It's hot and humid even in winter. There are various stairs and uneven surfaces so not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues. Photos not allowed anywhere inside. Worth a visit whether you are religious or not. Tour ends in the Basilica so you can see that at the end if you want.
Stephen Evans
100
Simple Amazing. I am not one for Religion or do I even follow one but I must say the whole experience of visiting this stunning place was a tick off the bucket list. From the whole architecture of the building to the paintings and sculptures inside was breath taking. I could not find a single thing wrong with my experience here. We must of come at a quiter time as I've heard it can get very busy but it wasn't at time. As the the heavens aligned and allowed me to see it in its entirety. I would recommend anyone no matter what you beliefs are to visit this wonder. 10/10. I wasn't able to see it all as it deserves a day to view the whole place so I will be visiting again and seeing the things I missed out. Pure and simple.....astonishing!!!
Buzz3001
30
Nearby Attractions Of Vatican Necropolis
Vatican Museums
St. Peter's Basilica
Sistine Chapel
Saint Peter's Square Vatican City Italy
St. Peter Square Obelisk
Museum Leonardo Da Vinci Experience
Parco di Monte Ciocci
Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II
Gardens of Vatican City
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Nearby Restaurants Of Vatican Necropolis
Ristorante Pizzeria Castello
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Basic Info
Address
Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
Map
Phone
+39 06 6988 5318
Call
Website
museivaticani.va
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.7
(415 reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
family friendly
accessibility
Description
The Vatican Necropolis lies under the Vatican City, at depths varying between 5–12 metres below Saint Peter's Basilica. The Vatican sponsored archaeological excavations under Saint Peter's in the years 1940–1949 which revealed parts of a necropolis dating to Imperial times.
attractions: Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica, Sistine Chapel, Saint Peter's Square Vatican City Italy, St. Peter Square Obelisk, Museum Leonardo Da Vinci Experience, Parco di Monte Ciocci, Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II, Gardens of Vatican City, Vox Mundi, restaurants: Ristorante Pizzeria Castello, Bonci Pizzarium, Caffè Delle Commari, Ristorante dei Musei, Pancia Felice, L'Isola della Pizza, La Soffitta Renovatio, Ristorante Pizzeria Marcantonio, Borghiciana Pastificio Artigianale, OSTERIA FARUSO

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