Vatican Grotto

The Vatican Grottoes lie three meters below the floor level of St. Peter's Basilica and form a network of chambers, chapels, and burial vaults connected by several corridors. This underground area extends directly beneath the nave and houses numerous tombs alongside archaeological remains from earlier structures.

Construction of the grottoes began in 1590 under architect Antonio da Sangallo the Younger to support the Renaissance basilica while preserving earlier structures. The underground chambers took shape during the extensive redesign of St. Peter's, which incorporated earlier building phases.

The burial chambers hold the remains of 91 popes alongside other church leaders and royalty from across Europe. Visitors walking through the corridors pass the resting place of Queen Christina of Sweden and other crowned figures who chose this location for their tombs.

Access is through the basilica, and visitors follow marked pathways through the underground corridors. The low ceiling height and narrow passages require walking slowly, and some areas have limited accessibility for wheelchair users.

The central area holds the Clementine Chapel with a 17th-century altar positioned near St. Peter's tomb, marked by white marble covering. This spot lies lower than the surrounding burial chambers and marks the spiritual heart of the site.