Discover the Mystique of the Vatican Necropolis
Explore the Vatican Necropolis, an ancient burial site revealing the mysteries of early Christianity and Roman history beneath St. Peter's Basilica.
The Vatican Necropolis, an extraordinary underground burial site beneath St. Peter's Basilica, offers a glimpse into ancient Roman history and early Christianity. A visit here is a profound journey through time, where you can explore intricate tombs and the remnants of a once-thriving civilization. Guided tours unveil the secrets of the past, making this an unmissable stop for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
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.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces in a dimly lit environment.
- Consider joining a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical context and significance of the site.
- Be respectful of the sacred nature of the site and maintain a quiet demeanor during your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
Once you are inside St. Peter's Basilica, locate the main altar at the far end of the basilica. Walk towards the altar, appreciating the stunning architecture and artwork around you. Once you reach the altar, look for the entrance to the Vatican Necropolis, which is usually through a door marked for access to the tombs. There should be signs directing you, but if you are unsure, ask one of the staff members near the altar for directions to the Necropolis. The entrance is often located beneath the basilica, so you may need to take a small staircase down to access it.
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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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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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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Anni 70
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