Excavations office

Visits to the Tomb of Saint Peter and the Necropolis under the Vatican Basilica

catacombe

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.
 

- In order to preserve this exceptional historical, archaeological site and due to the limited premises around the venerated tomb of the Apostle Peter, only around 250 visitors per day are permitted to enter.

- Groups are composed of approximately 12 people and according to language. 

- Only those who are 15 years or older will be admitted – no exceptions will be made.

- Each group is accompanied by a guide especially trained by our office.
The guided visit lasts about an hour and a half. 

We kindly inform all visitors to the necropolis that environmental conditions will be different underground, with possible increase of temperature and humidity. Those who suffer specific and serious physical problems that could be effected by these conditions, including claustrophobia, should not visit.