9The Vatican Necropolis

St Peter’s tomb isn’t the only treasured tomb in the Vatican Necropolis. The Necropolis was excavated during the 1940s leading to the discovery of pagan and Christian tombs predating Constantine’s original basilica. The famous Tomb of the Julii covered in mosaics is particularly fascinating.

Due to the delicate conditions of the Necropolis, only small groups are allowed to visit and the total number of visitors at one time are restricted. Many people either do not realise they can tour the Necropolis or do not even know of its existence until they visit. For those who are in on the secret, tickets are highly coveted!