An ancient necropolis, one of the best-preserved ever found, is now open for viewing in Vatican City. Discovered three years ago by workers breaking ground for a new Vatican parking garage, the ancient cemetery is located along what was once the ancient Via Triumphalis (Triumphal Way) travelled by victorious Roman warriors upon their return to Rome. The necropolis is unique for its mix of burial sites for both upper and middle class Romans.

Archaeologists describe it as one of the most complete and documented collections from imperial Rome. "We discovered what might be called a small funerary Pompeii," said Giandomenico Spinola, who oversaw the archaeological work for the Vatican Museums.

Excavations have brought to light about 40 mausoleums and over 200 individual graves on various levels, many with inscriptions. Most are well preserved and date from the time of Christ through the 4th century AD. The excellent preservation is attributed to a landslide that covered the site with clay early in the 4th century.

Funerary altars, mosaic floors, urns, frescoes and sarcophagi are among the interesting finds in the Vatican necropolis. Archaeologists have even found terra cotta tubes inserted in graves into which family members would pour offerings of milk, wine, or honey to nourish the dead.

Visitors to the necropolis, which opens to the public on October 12, can view the ruins from steel catwalks. The Vatican necropolis is open on Fridays and Saturdays only, for tours of no more than 25 people. Reservations are required and may be made by sending an email to: visitespeciali.musei@scv.va.

Related: How to Apply to Tour the Vatican Excavations
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