The Vatican City, the seat of the Roman Catholic church, is the world’s smallest independent nation-state. Famous baroque artwork, statues and sculptures, within the Sistine Chapel, Vatican museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and St. Peter’s Square are just a few of the sights to behold here.
What you may not have known is that underneath the Vatican lies the Vatican Necropolis, a complex of pagan mausoleums, and the tomb of the apostle, Saint Peter. You can actually visit these tunnels, the Necropolis, and see St. Peter’s Tomb on a guided tour; however, only 250 people are allowed to enter per day. You must obtain permission from the excavations office before you can enter, must be flexible, as there are many days that tours aren’t given, and photography is strictly not allowed.
What do you gain from this tour? An incredible hour and a half tour of archaeological finds, excavations, mausoleums, tombs, and artifacts, which ends at the burial place of St. Peter, including what are believed to be his bones.
For further information on reservations, click the excavations source link at the bottom of this post.
St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City