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Descend Beneath St. Peter’s Basilica to Explore Ancient Tombs and the Roots of Christianity
Updated November 2025
Beneath the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica lies one of the most intimate and restricted archaeological sites in the world: the Vatican Necropolis, known as the Scavi. To visit is to descend through centuries of sacred history, walking among ancient tombs, a Roman cemetery and the traditionally believed burial spot of the Apostle Peter. But this is not a casual stop — entry is heavily limited, guided only, and requires detailed advance planning.
At a Glance
How Early to Book:
Tourists that wish to visit should fill out the online form requesting tickets as early as possible.
Tickets Released:
Availability often opens up weeks or months ahead, however, final approval may come very close to the selected visit date.
Ticket price:
€20 for adults.
Where to Book:
To gain access you must reserve a guided tour only via the official Office of Excavations of St. Peter’s (Ufficio Scavi). Tickets are not sold at the gate, and only about 250 visitors per day are admitted to preserve the site. Each tour lasts approximately one hour, groups are small (about 12 people), and they depart in multiple languages.
The ticket price is around €20 per visitor (no reductions apply) and must be paid by credit card once your request is accepted. Shoulder and knees must be covered; large bags and photography are not permitted. You must arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled slot via the entrance on Via Paolo VI, on the left side of the colonnade of the basilica. Late arrivals may lose their booking.
Because the necropolis is underground and relatively confined, visitors should be aware of the conditions: humidity and temperature may differ from the surface, and the tour involves low ceilings and narrow passages. It is not recommended for those with severe claustrophobia, mobility issues, or certain health conditions.
The booking process is one of the more complex processes in all of Europe. You’ll need to submit a reservation request form (with names, preferred dates, and language) via the official website of the Necropolis. Availability often opens many weeks or even months ahead, and approval may come close to the visit date. Because slots are so limited, flexibility in dates and language helps.
Once you’re inside, you’ll begin in the excavated Roman street and tombs that lie beneath the basilica’s foundations, eventually reaching the so-called “Tomb of Peter” area, and from there you typically exit through the basilica’s grottoes or crypt. Photography is strictly forbidden, and silence and respect are expected. After the tour you’re welcome to continue visiting the main basilica, although the necropolis ticket does not grant entry back into the basilica if you leave and re-enter later.
The necropolis tour is one of the most exclusive visits you can take in Rome — book early, submit your request via the official form, dress appropriately, arrive on time, and travel light. Give yourself a first-choice and second-choice date, and keep your plans flexible. If you succeed, you’ll experience a level of Roman history rarely accessible to tourists and leave with a memory of the city beneath the basilica that few will have.
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