Unearthing History at the Vatican Necropolis
Discover the rich history of the Vatican Necropolis, a sacred burial site steeped in early Christian heritage beneath St. Peter's Basilica.
The Vatican Necropolis, located beneath St. Peter's Basilica, offers a unique glimpse into ancient Roman burial practices, with exquisite tombs and artifacts that tell the story of early Christians. This historical landmark invites tourists to explore its rich heritage and sacred atmosphere.
A brief summary to Vatican Necropolis
- Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City, VA
- +390669885318
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance as spots are limited and fill up quickly.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths can be uneven and require walking.
- Keep your voice down to maintain the solemn atmosphere of the site.
- Photography is not allowed inside the Necropolis, so enjoy the experience without distractions.
- Plan your visit early in the day to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the site.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Sistine Chapel, exit through the main entrance and head towards the large open space outside. Walk straight ahead towards the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica, which will be directly in front of you. As you approach the basilica, you will see the impressive colonnades of Piazza San Pietro surrounding it. Continue walking towards the basilica until you reach the entrance to the Vatican Necropolis located directly beneath the basilica.
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Walking
If you prefer to explore a bit more, after exiting the Sistine Chapel, you can take a left and walk along the Vatican Museums' outer perimeter. Follow the signs to St. Peter's Basilica. The path will eventually lead you to the entrance of the Piazza San Pietro. Once you reach the piazza, you can find the entrance to the Vatican Necropolis at the back of St. Peter's Basilica.
Discover more about Vatican Necropolis
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Teutonic Cemetery
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La Pietà di Michelangelo
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Fontana di Piazza Santa Marta
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Paul VI Hall
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Vatican City
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The Last Judgment
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Unmissable attractions to see
Excavation Office
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Museo del tesoro de 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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Sistine Chapel
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Chiesa di Santo Stefano degli Abissini
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Fountain of the Vatican Railway Station
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Palace of the Belvedere
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Presepe dei Netturbini
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Saint Peter's Square
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Circus of Nero or Circus of Caligula
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St peter's peach
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Fontana del Cortile del Belvedere dei Palazzi Vaticani
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Collection of Contemporary Art
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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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Angela Souvenirs roma
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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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Enoteca dei Desideri
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Caffè Leonina
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Al Mio Caffè
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Bar Delle Grazie
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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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Anni 70
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Terrazza 1919
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Be.Re. + Trapizzino
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kukac
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Un'estate torrida
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NEW KING CLUB
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Duecento gradi
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Caffè Vaticano
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Bukowski's Bar
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Saxophone Live Pub
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Chill
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La Zanzara
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Emerald's Independent Bar
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Roof Garden & Bar
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Terrazza Les Étoiles Roma
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The Basement - Pub. Cocktail Bar. Events
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Alexanderplatz Jazz Club
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