What is in the bottom of the Vatican?

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 (also known by their Italian name scavi) under Saint Peter's in the years 1940–1949 which revealed parts of a necropolis dating to Imperial times.



The bottom of the Vatican, specifically beneath St. Peter's Basilica, houses the Vatican Necropolis, an ancient Roman cemetery dating back to the 1st through 4th centuries AD. This subterranean area sits at depths of 5 to 12 meters below the modern floor level and contains a series of well-preserved pagan and early Christian tombs. The most significant site within the Necropolis is the Tomb of St. Peter, which tradition holds is the final resting place of the Apostle Peter. Above the Necropolis, but below the main altar, are the Vatican Grottoes, which contain the tombs of many popes, including John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Access to the deepest level, the Scavi (the excavations), is strictly limited to small guided tours of about 250 people per day to preserve the delicate structures. This multi-layered underground world serves as both a historical archaeological site and a sacred pilgrimage destination.

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The Vatican Secret Archives is home to the largest collection of Catholic books, documents, and doctrine in the world. It boasts letters from well-known figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Mary, Queen of Scots.

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You'll get to see the actual tomb of St. Peter and the bones of the dead Apostle at the end of the tour in the Vatican grottoes, underneath the Basilica. You are free to explore these for as long as you like before heading up to see the Basilica.

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Peter's Tomb is located directly below the Papal Altar or St. Peter's Altar.

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Special visits to the necropolis underneath the Basilica, where the tomb of St. Peter is located, are only possible following special permission granted from time to time by the “Fabbrica di San Pietro”. Visits are organized according to the schedule set by the Excavations Office.

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Vatican Grottoes is a massive spread of papal tombs situated right below St. Peter's Basilica. Aside from the many artifacts, this area is the final resting place of over 90 popes, royalty, and other dignitaries.

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History of the Tomb A massive fire occurred in Rome in the year 64 AD, for which Emperor Nero blamed the Christians. This subsequently led to the crucifixion of St. Peter, who was considered the leader of the Christians. He was then buried at the Vatican Necropolis close to the site of his death.

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How to Enter the Vatican in Rome? To enter Vatican City, you don't need a passport or Visa or even tickets for the attractions inside. You can simply walk inside. However, if you wish to enter the attractions inside, such as the Vatican Museums, you would need to buy tickets.

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