The Vatican Necropolis, also known as the Scavi, lies under the Vatican City, at depths varying between 5 and 12 meters below the basilica. The Vatican sponsored archeological excavations under Saint Peter's in the years 1940 - 1949 which revealed parts of a necropolis dating to Imperial times. The work was undertaken at the request of Pope Pius XI who wished to be buried as close as possible to Peter the Apostle. Peter is said to be buried there due to its proximity to the Circus of Nero where he was martyred. It is also home to the Tomb of the Julii, which has been dated to the third or fourth century. More of the necropolis was unearthed in 2003 during construction of a parking lot.
Some tombs have undergone restorations, such as the ten-month project involving the Valerii Mausoleum.
Tours of the Scavi can be arranged in advance by specifying the desired date and indicating the language in which the tour is to be conducted. Lasting about an hour and a half, the tours end at Saint Peter's tomb before returning to the basilica. Due to limits placed by conservation efforts, only small groups of ten to fifteen people are permitted at a time.
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