Unearthing History: The Vatican Necropolis
Discover the ancient mysteries of the Vatican Necropolis, a historical landmark beneath St. Peter's Basilica revealing early Christian burials and art.
The Vatican Necropolis offers a fascinating glimpse into the early Christian burials beneath St. Peter's Basilica. Visitors can explore ancient tombs and stunning frescoes, revealing the history of the Roman Empire and the early Church. A visit here is both educational and spiritual, making it a must-see for tourists in Vatican City.
A brief summary to Vatican Necropolis
- Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City, VA
- +390669885318
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance as access to the Necropolis is limited and often sells out quickly.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking through narrow and uneven pathways.
- Photography is restricted, so be prepared to take in the sights without your camera.
- Consider visiting during off-peak times to fully appreciate the tranquility of this sacred site.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Gregorian Etruscan Museum, exit the museum and head towards the main entrance of the Vatican Museums. Once you reach the entrance, proceed towards the exit of the Vatican Museums. After exiting, you will find yourself at the junction leading to the Vatican City. Follow the signs directing you towards St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro). Walk straight along Via della Conciliazione, which will lead you directly to Piazza San Pietro. Once you arrive at Piazza San Pietro, you will see the majestic St. Peter's Basilica in front of you. The entrance to the Vatican Necropolis is located beneath St. Peter's Basilica. Look for the signs indicating the entrance to the Necropolis, which is often referred to as the Scavi. You may need to book a guided tour in advance to access the Necropolis.
Discover more about Vatican Necropolis
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
La Pietà di Michelangelo
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Vatican City
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Unmissable attractions to see
Excavation Office
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Museo del tesoro de San Pietro
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Piazza dei Protomartiri Romani
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Museo del tesoro di San Pietro
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St. Peter's Basilica
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St. Peter's Baldachin
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Tomb of Saint Peter
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Teutonic Cemetery
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Church of Our Lady of Mercy in the German Cemetery
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The Madonna della Pietà
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Fontana Quadrangolare di Gianlorenzo Bernini
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Fontana di Piazza Santa Marta
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Paul VI Hall
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Chapel of Saint Martha
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Palazzo San Carlo
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Essential places to dine
Pausa Caffè-Lounge
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Ristorante La Pilotta
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Ristrot San Pietro
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Divine Bontà
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Trattoria Angelo Alla Cupola
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Homebaked Porta Cavalleggeri
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Alberto's Pizza San Pietro
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Vino & Peperoncino Ristorante Bistrot | Food & Wine
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Halal Vatican Food
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Bono Bottega Nostrana- San Pietro
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PERDINCI Bistrò - Ristorante a San Pietro Roma
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Capitan Cono
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Krusty Krabs
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Il Colonnato Srl
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L'Osteria degli Avvocati
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tourist Information Office
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R-Store Città del Vaticano - Rivenditore Autorizzato Apple
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Vatican Souvenir & Mini Market
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Vatican Luggage storage
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Petit Cadeau
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Uffreducci Franca
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Vatican Souvenir (S.R.L.)
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Centro Commerciale San Pietro
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Mini Market & Luggage Storeg
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MM ROMA STORE & LUGGAGE STORAGE
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Savelli Religious (Savelli Art and Tradition)
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
McQueen Food&Drink
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Vatican Apostolic Library
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Vatican Apostolic Archive
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Gardens of Vatican City
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Enoteca dei Desideri
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Caffè Leonina
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Al Mio Caffè
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Ristorante Arlù
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Cafe San Pietro
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Vatican Museums
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Wine Bar De' Penitenzieri
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American bar - Vecchio Borgo S.r.l.
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Bottega Vittoria
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