Taking the tour underneath St Peter’s Basilica within the Vatican City is one that takes you to the very heart of the ancient Rome. The highlight has to be the visit to St Peter’s Tomb, a key symbol of Catholicism. The longstanding belief that St. Peter’s relics lay underneath is the reason that the present day Basilica and its predecessor which was built by Constantine was located here.
Take time to admire the street of mausoleums which is almost perfectly preserved and imagine it open to the elements as ancient Roman families came by to visit their families, often bringing picnics and wine to spend the day in the family vaults. Those that have been excavated reveal intricate mosaics and frescoes which are still brightly coloured even 1700 years later.
Sadly excavations stopped after just a few years as it was feared they could endanger the structure of the immense Basilica which has this area as its foundations so only a small area is revealed and open to the public.
Hints and Tips
As with any Vatican visit, keep shoulders covered and do not turn up in short or a mini skirt. You need comfortable shoes and layers are advised as the temperature underneath the Basilica is quite humid. This is NOT a tour for people with access needs or for those susceptible to claustrophobia. The tour lasts around 75 mins and you cannot take photos or bulky bags with you.
Booking your place:
This tour is not one that you can do spontaneously as you need to book it several weeks ahead. Email or fax your request to the Excavations Office and await your allocated time if a tour is available on your chosen date and in your chosen language. You will then need to pay immediately to confirm your place. Only people aged 15 or over are allowed on the tour and you must book directly as no reservations through agencies are allowed.
Send an email or fax that includes the following information:
The exact number of visitors and names
Language desired for the visit
The dates available during which the Office can arrange the visit (The precise time of the visit will be determined by the Excavations Office).
Contact information (an e-mail address, fax number, or full postal address) so that the Excavations Office may advise you about your visit
Cost: 12 euros per person (January 2010 price)
For more details about the tour, visit www.traveltalesfromrome.com
Excavations Office
Fabbrica di San Pietro
00120 Città del Vaticano
Tel: 0039 0669885318
Email: uff.scavi@fabricsp.va
Fax: 0039 06 698 73017
Nearest Metro - Ottiviano
Is this your business?