Monday to Sunday: 9am - 6pm
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Vatican tombs is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Weekdays generally offer a quieter experience than weekends. It closes earlier than the Basilica, so make sure you complete your visit at least one hour before closing time.
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Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Citta del Vaticano, Vatican City
The Vatican Grottoes are a part of St. Peter’s Basilica and can be accessed through the main entrance of the Basilica. Exiting from the Vatican Grottoes will lead you outside the Basilica and you will have to wait in line again to enter the Church. Make sure you explore the Basilica first and then head to the Vatican Grottoes level.
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This is the oldest chapel around the Tomb of St. Peter. Inside this chapel is a fresco of Madonna called ‘Madonna Della Bocciata,’ referring to her swollen face. An ancient legend says that her face bled after a drunk soldier threw a bowl at the fresco after losing a game.
The Vatican Grottoes, nestled beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, have a rich history dating back to the late 16th century. Initially built between 1590 and 1591 to support the Renaissance basilica above, these underground vaults have evolved significantly over time.
In 1592, Pope Clement VIII renovated the medieval crypt, naming it the Clementine Chapel, and later, between 1616 and 1617, Pope Paul V added various chapels and corridors, enhancing the Grottoes' role as a sacred site. The Grottoes were transformed into a memorial space, preserving relics from the old basilica that preceded the current structure.
Over the centuries, additional chapels and oratories were established, including notable contributions from Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The Grottoes now serve as a lower basilica, housing the tombs of over 90 Popes and connecting to the ancient Vatican Necropolis.
Detailed history of St. Peter's BasilicaA visit to the Vatican Grottoes typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how thoroughly you explore and whether you’re part of a guided tour.
The Grottoes are accessible to visitors with mobility challenges, but it’s best to check with the Vatican’s official website or contact their visitor services for specific details and arrangements.
You can, but the Vatican Necropolis, which lies beneath the Grottoes, requires a separate tour and advance reservation. It is a different area and provides insights into early Christian burial practices and the tomb of St. Peter.
Not at all—it's well-lit and easy to navigate!
No, facilities are quite limited. There are no restrooms or food services directly within the Grottoes, so it’s advisable to use facilities before entering.
