The Roma Sacra collection comes in 50 issues / itineraries that illustrate the inestimable heritage of the places of worship in Rome.
This book is Roma Sacra - Itinerary #25
"The Vatican Necropolis". It is a guide to the history of the Vatican Necropolis that includes the tomb of Peter and an investigation into the building of the old basilica ordered by Constantine and Pope Sylvester. This work led to the burying of the cemetery that remained inaccessible and untouched for one thousand six hundred years until the archaeological excavation undertaken during the last century (1939-1949) uncovered it.
In addition, all the mausoleums of the necropolis are described in the form of a tour that, climbing the Vatican Hill from east to west, leads to Peter's tomb. Continuing along the ancient footpath under the central aisle of the basilica, this guide describes the features of each building, the main epigraphic documents and the meaning and elegance of the decorations. Some in-depth explanations of the funeral rites of the Romans help the modern visitor and/or pilgrim to imagine what life customs the Romans followed at those tombs during the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. The Christian evidence found in the excavations has been illustrated to show the growth of Christianity during the early centuries of the empire.
This is the first guide about the Vatican Necropolis that has been presented for the public in an easy to read and complete way.
Created in Italy, this guide provides insights into the Roman Catholic history and traditions that are embedded in the necropolis, making it a valuable collectible for travelers looking to deepen their understanding of the region's rich heritage.