Exploring the Vatican Necropolis: A Journey Through Time
Discover the Vatican Necropolis, an ancient burial site beneath St. Peter's Basilica, where history and spirituality intertwine in a captivating journey through time.
The Vatican Necropolis is a fascinating underground burial site located beneath St. Peter's Basilica, offering tourists a unique glimpse into ancient Roman history. This historical landmark is not only a significant archaeological site but also an extraordinary experience that connects visitors to the rich heritage of the Vatican. As you wander through its ancient corridors and tombs, you will encounter stunning frescoes, intricate mosaics, and the resting places of early Christians, including St. Peter himself. Guided tours are available, ensuring that you make the most of your visit to this captivating site.
A brief summary to Vatican Necropolis
- Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City, VA
- +390669885318
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, as spots are limited and fill up quickly due to the site's popularity.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking through uneven surfaces and narrow passages.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the temperature in the necropolis can be cooler than above ground.
- Consider joining a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the historical significance and details of the site.
- Be respectful and maintain a quiet demeanor while exploring, as the necropolis is a sacred space.
Getting There
-
Walking
After finishing your visit to the Sistine Chapel, exit through the main entrance. Once you are outside, head towards the main entrance of St. Peter's Basilica, which is directly across from the exit of the chapel. The Basilica is located on the left side as you are facing the square. Walk towards St. Peter's Basilica, and enter the Piazza San Pietro (St. Peter's Square). From here, follow the signs that indicate the entrance to the Vatican Necropolis, which is located beneath St. Peter's Basilica. Be sure to check if you need to book a guided tour in advance, as access to the Necropolis is often limited and requires a reservation.
Discover more about Vatican Necropolis
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Teutonic Cemetery
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of the Teutonic Cemetery, a tranquil retreat in the heart of Vatican City.
La Pietà di Michelangelo
0.1 km
Discover the emotional power of La Pietà di Michelangelo, a timeless masterpiece in the heart of Vatican City, capturing the essence of Renaissance art.
Fontana di Piazza Santa Marta
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Fontana di Piazza Santa Marta, a hidden fountain gem in Vatican City that enchants visitors with its tranquil ambiance.
Paul VI Hall
0.1 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Paul VI Hall in Vatican City, where spirituality meets modern design in an iconic auditorium.
Vatican City
0.1 km
Explore Vatican City, the spiritual heart of Catholicism, home to St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and a treasure trove of art and history.
The Last Judgment
0.2 km
Explore The Last Judgment, Michelangelo's breathtaking fresco in the Sistine Chapel, a pinnacle of Renaissance art and spirituality in Vatican City.
Unmissable attractions to see
Excavation Office
0.0 km
Explore the ancient wonders beneath St. Peter's Basilica at the Excavation Office, a historical society in Vatican City revealing the past.
Museo del tesoro de San Pietro
0.0 km
Explore the exquisite collection of sacred treasures at Museo del Tesoro di San Pietro in Vatican City, a must-visit for art and history lovers.
St. Peter's Basilica
0.1 km
Explore St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and the spiritual heart of Vatican City, rich in art and history.
St. Peter's Baldachin
0.1 km
Explore the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Baldachin, a Baroque marvel by Bernini, and a centerpiece of Vatican City's artistic and spiritual heritage.
Tomb of Saint Peter
0.1 km
Explore the Tomb of Saint Peter, the spiritual heart of Vatican City, where history, faith, and art converge in an unforgettable pilgrimage.
Sistine Chapel
0.2 km
Explore the Sistine Chapel, a breathtaking masterpiece of Renaissance art and a sacred site of the Catholic Church, located in Vatican City.
Chiesa di Santo Stefano degli Abissini
0.2 km
Explore the serene Chiesa di Santo Stefano degli Abissini, a hidden Catholic church gem in Vatican City, rich in art and spirituality.
Fountain of the Vatican Railway Station
0.2 km
Experience the artistic beauty and vibrant atmosphere at the Fountain of the Vatican Railway Station, a must-visit landmark in Vatican City.
Palace of the Belvedere
0.2 km
Explore the Palace of the Belvedere in Vatican City - a Renaissance gem filled with art, history, and breathtaking architecture.
Presepe dei Netturbini
0.2 km
Explore Presepe dei Netturbini in Rome - A Unique Nativity Scene that Blends Art, Community, and Sustainability.
Saint Peter's Square
0.2 km
Discover the grandeur of Saint Peter's Square, a historical and spiritual landmark in Vatican City, surrounded by stunning architecture and rich tradition.
Circus of Nero or Circus of Caligula
0.2 km
Discover the historical significance of the Circus of Nero, a captivating remnant of ancient Rome's grandeur, nestled in Vatican City.
St peter's peach
0.3 km
Discover St. Peter's Peach, a charming tourist attraction in Rome that blends history, culture, and local flavors for an unforgettable experience.
Fontana del Cortile del Belvedere dei Palazzi Vaticani
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Fontana del Cortile del Belvedere in Vatican City, a hidden gem of Renaissance art and tranquility.
Collection of Contemporary Art
0.3 km
Discover modern artistic expressions at the Collection of Contemporary Art in Vatican City, a unique blend of history and contemporary creativity.
Essential places to dine
Pausa Caffè-Lounge
0.2 km
Discover tranquility at Pausa Caffè-Lounge, where delicious flavors meet warm Italian hospitality in the heart of Rome.
Ristorante La Pilotta
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine near Vatican City at Ristorante La Pilotta - famous for delicious pasta and pizza at great prices.
Ristrot San Pietro
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristrot San Pietro in Rome - where traditional flavors meet modern dining.
Divine Bontà
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Divine Bontà in Rome - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Trattoria Angelo Alla Cupola
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Angelo Alla Cupola, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor in the heart of Rome.
Homebaked Porta Cavalleggeri
0.2 km
Discover the flavors of American breakfast at Homebaked Porta Cavalleggeri in Rome – where every meal feels like a warm hug.
Alberto's Pizza San Pietro
0.2 km
Experience the best pizza in Rome at Alberto's Pizza San Pietro – where tradition meets flavor in every slice.
Vino & Peperoncino Ristorante Bistrot | Food & Wine
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine paired with exquisite wines at Vino & Peperoncino Ristorante Bistrot in Rome.
Halal Vatican Food
0.2 km
Discover delicious halal cuisine at Halal Vatican Food, perfectly located near the historic Vatican City in Rome.
Bono Bottega Nostrana- San Pietro
0.2 km
Discover gourmet sandwiches and artisanal coffee at Bono Bottega Nostrana, an essential stop for food lovers in the heart of Rome.
PERDINCI Bistrò - Ristorante a San Pietro Roma
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at PERDINCI Bistrò near Vatican City – your gateway to delightful flavors in Rome.
Capitan Cono
0.2 km
Discover Capitan Cono in Rome - where traditional Italian flavors meet modern dining in an inviting atmosphere.
Krusty Krabs
0.2 km
Experience whimsical dining at Krusty Krabs in Vatican City - where delicious meals meet beloved animated nostalgia!
Il Colonnato Srl
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Il Colonnato Srl – where tradition meets convenience in the heart of Rome.
L'Osteria degli Avvocati
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at L'Osteria degli Avvocati in Rome—where tradition meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tourist Information Office
0.2 km
Discover the Tourist Information Office in Vatican City for unique souvenirs, insightful books, and essential travel tips to enhance your visit.
R-Store Città del Vaticano - Rivenditore Autorizzato Apple
0.2 km
Explore R-Store Città del Vaticano for exclusive Apple products and exceptional service in the heart of Vatican City.
Vatican Souvenir & Mini Market
0.2 km
Explore a treasure trove of authentic Roman souvenirs and delicious snacks at Vatican Souvenir & Mini Market, your perfect shopping stop in Rome.
Vatican Luggage storage
0.2 km
Discover the convenience of Vatican Luggage Storage, your secure solution for hassle-free exploration in the heart of Rome.
Petit Cadeau
0.2 km
Explore the exquisite handcrafted jewelry of Petit Cadeau in Rome, where artistry meets elegance in every unique piece.
Uffreducci Franca
0.2 km
Explore Uffreducci Franca, a hidden gem for women's fashion in the heart of Rome, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern style.
Angela Souvenirs roma
0.2 km
Discover unique Italian souvenirs at Angela Souvenirs, where every item tells a story of Italy's rich culture and craftsmanship.
Vatican Souvenir (S.R.L.)
0.2 km
Discover unique religious souvenirs at Vatican Souvenir, a charming store near the Vatican in Rome offering a variety of authentic items.
Centro Commerciale San Pietro
0.2 km
Explore Centro Commerciale San Pietro in Rome for an exquisite shopping experience featuring unique bags and watches in a vibrant atmosphere.
Mini Market & Luggage Storeg
0.2 km
Explore Rome with ease at the Mini Market & Luggage Store, your convenient stop for groceries and travel essentials.
MM ROMA STORE & LUGGAGE STORAGE
0.3 km
Explore Rome without the burden of luggage at MM Roma Store & Luggage Storage; your ultimate destination for souvenirs and storage.
Savelli Religious (Savelli Art and Tradition)
0.3 km
Explore Savelli Religious in Rome for unique religious artifacts, exquisite jewelry, and thoughtful gifts that capture the essence of Italian spirituality.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
McQueen Food&Drink
0.3 km
Experience the fusion of traditional Italian cuisine and modern gastronomy at McQueen Food&Drink in the heart of Rome.
Enoteca dei Desideri
0.4 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Enoteca dei Desideri, a charming wine bar in the heart of Rome, perfect for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Caffè Leonina
0.4 km
Experience the charm of Roman café culture at Caffè Leonina, where every sip transports you to the heart of Italy.
Al Mio Caffè
0.4 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Al Mio Caffè, a charming bar in the heart of Rome offering exquisite coffee and pastries.
Bar Delle Grazie
0.5 km
Experience the heart of Roman culture at Bar Delle Grazie, where delightful flavors and local charm come together in a cozy setting.
Ristorante Arlù
0.5 km
Experience the essence of Italian dining near Vatican City at Ristorante Arlù, where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Cafe San Pietro
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian café culture at Cafe San Pietro, where rich coffees and delectable pastries await in the heart of Rome.
Vatican Museums
0.5 km
Discover the artistic legacy and cultural treasures of the Vatican Museums, a must-visit destination for all art and history lovers.
Wine Bar De' Penitenzieri
0.6 km
Experience the essence of Italian wine culture at Wine Bar De' Penitenzieri, where every sip tells a story of tradition and passion.
American bar - Vecchio Borgo S.r.l.
0.6 km
Experience the essence of Rome at Vecchio Borgo, where delightful cocktails and sundaes await in a charming atmosphere.
Bottega Vittoria
0.6 km
Experience the authentic tastes of Italy at Bottega Vittoria in the heart of Rome, where culinary delights meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Anni 70
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Anni 70 in Rome, where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere in a perfect blend of bar and restaurant experiences.
Terrazza 1919
0.6 km
Experience breathtaking views of Vatican City with exquisite cocktails at Terrazza 1919, Rome's premier rooftop bar.
Be.Re. + Trapizzino
0.6 km
Discover the taste of Rome at Be.Re. + Trapizzino, a gastropub offering innovative Italian street food and a cozy atmosphere near the Vatican.
