Today we returned to Vatican City to explore the necropolis under St. Peter’s Basilica.

We began the day a bit later than usual with class starting at 12:30 rather than the usual 9:00am since we weren’t able to get into the necropolis until 3:00. So, we had some extra time to sleep in, eat breakfast, and explore some more of the city before we met for lecture and the day’s presentations.

Once we got to the Vatican and through security, we were split off into three separate groups as only groups of twelve are allowed in at a time due to the lack of space and preservation precautions.

As our tour guide led us through the narrow passages we were able to look in on several of the tombs enclosed by glass preserving the ancient remains and relics within. She described to us the history of the necropolis and basilica above. Originally an open-air burial ground of the Romans built on the slope of Vatican hill, it was leveled and the ruins buried by emperor Constantine in order to construct the Old St. Peter’s Basilica. The old basilica has since been replaced by the basilica standing today and the necropolis and mausoleums were uncovered during excavations to find the remains of St. Peter, who was assumed to be buried there.

We then ended the tour at the tomb of St. Peter and were able to see his remains and the wall of graffiti claiming it to be his resting place.

Unfortunately taking photos is not allowed inside the necropolis, so here’s a picture of the exit.

And St. Peter’s Basilica.

 

Maddie