I have my reservation, but the excavation office did not provide me with directions to their office or a meeting place. I emailed them for directions, but can anyone here give me directions in case I don't hear back from them?

Sorry, I didn't mention Rome in my post!

The Scavi Office is located through the gate to the left of St. Peter's Basilica (as you face the church). The gate is protected by Swiss Guards. Just show them your reservation and they will let you through. The office will be about 200 feet past the gate on your right.

Thanks Grinisa! I knew somebody here could help me!

When we were there last year, we still had to go through security (which is on the right of St. Peter's) before going on the Tour. If the line is long, I would have one stand in the line on the right, and the other go to the Scavi entrance on the left. This way, if they say you have to go through security first, someone is already in line.

Thanks, Amee. I assume we will have to go through security, especially in light of the al-Qaeda threat to Italy last month.

Swiss Guards and gate: They do tend to stand out a bit, so ya can't miss them . http://www.ne.jp/asahi/mayumi/watana...d/sguardsd.jpg
Remember you can't take anything with you (camera, pack, waterbottles, etc) so leave it at the free manned storage area on the rightside of St. Peter's steps. I believe that ladies must also check their pocketbooks? Regards, Walter

I was wearing a waist pack and they didn't make me check it in. One thing, make sure you are not a MINUTE late! If you are, you will be turned away or have to wait for the next tour. NO EXCEPTIONS (as we found out the hard way).

Thanks for the tip, Amee!

When I went last September i had to check my purse at the security office on the RIGHT side of St. Peter's and then walk over to the Scavi office on the LEFT side of St. Peter's. I don't know if it is still the same procedure.

Leave yourself plenty of time.

Ok, now that I am sufficiently worried about getting there on time for a 9:15 a.m. tour (Sep 2), can anyone estimate what time I should arrive to get through security?

Also, how much time time would it take 2 fast-walkers to get there from Campo dei Fiori? Should we just get a cab?

To be on the safe side - I would plan to arrive an hour ahead of time. The line moves pretty fast, but it's best to be relaxed than be rushed.

We went to St. Peter's twice...once in the morning and once in the afternoon. The morning security lines were much longer. We walked starting out at the Pantheon and it took us about 30 minutes....walking not too leisurely. Make sure you have a good map and understand the route.

ok. Thanks. Sounds like it will be an early morning for us, but I would like to walk it.