Vatican Scavi Tour: Explore the Underground Tomb of St. Peter
The Vatican Scavi Tour, which takes you through the excavations beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, is one of the most exclusive and fascinating experiences in Rome.

I have been an official Vatican Scavi guide since 1996. After decades leading visitors through these underground passages, I know every corner of the site so well that I could practically guide the tour blindfolded.

During the tour, we will explore the Ancient Roman necropolis discovered by archaeologists in 1939 during excavations ordered by Pope Pius XII. This extraordinary underground burial city dates from the 1st to the 4th century AD and was originally located along the ancient Via Cornelia, a Roman road that once ran beside the hill where the Vatican now stands.

The necropolis contains remarkably preserved mausoleums and tombs belonging to wealthy Roman families. Many are decorated with colorful frescoes, intricate mosaics, stucco reliefs, and inscriptions that reveal details about Roman funeral traditions and early Christian beliefs. Walking through these narrow ancient streets feels like stepping back into the world of Imperial Rome.

One of the most important highlights of the Scavi is the early Christian burial area surrounding the tomb of Saint Peter the Apostle. According to tradition and archaeological evidence, St. Peter was buried here after his martyrdom in Rome during the reign of Emperor Nero in the 1st century AD. His grave soon became a place of pilgrimage for early Christians.
In the 4th century, Emperor Constantine the Great ordered the construction of the first basilica directly above this sacred site to honor St. Peter. The present St. Peter's Basilica, begun in 1506, was later built in the same location, preserving the apostle’s burial place deep below the high altar.
Because the site is extremely delicate and protected, access to the excavations is strictly limited. Only small groups of about 15 visitors are allowed at a time, making the Vatican Scavi Tour one of the most exclusive experiences in Rome.

After visiting the underground necropolis, we will continue with a guided visit inside St. Peter’s Basilica.
Built beginning in 1506, St. Peter's Basilica is the largest church in the world and home to some of the most important masterpieces of the Renaissance, including the famous Pietà by Michelangelo.

This tour can also be combined with a visit to the Vatican Museums or with the Papal Audience on Wednesdays for a complete Vatican experience.

Tour Duration: 2 hours