Basilica di San Pietro in Vaticano, A spiritual journey to the grandeur of Christendom
Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
4.8
Introduction
St. Peter's Basilica, built in the 16th century, is one of the largest Catholic churches in the world and is considered the most sacred place in the Catholic Church. The St. Peter's Basilica is one of the famous Catholic pilgrimage sites, and the pope holds multiple ceremonies here every year. It has a strong association with many events in Christian history, such as early Christianity, the Papal States, the Reformation, Counter-Reformation, and more. The entire building covers an area of 23,000 square meters and can accommodate over 60,000 people. The Pietà by Michelangelo is located in the Virgin Mary Chapel on the right-hand side of the entrance. The central dome, designed by Michelangelo, can be reached by a spiral staircase and provides a panoramic view of the entire building and the city of Rome; it is considered the closest place to heaven. The Vatican Necropolis is located beneath the Basilica and is the resting place of many popes. The pope holds a blessing for the public in the church every Sunday. Please note that appropriate dress is required to enter the church, with women's clothing needing to cover their knees and men and women wearing long sleeves. St. Peter's Basilica showcases Renaissance murals and sculptures, including works by Michelangelo and Raphael. Both the Basilica's architectural design and the square's design were created by early architects and artists with great effort and care. Address Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
Opening hours Church: April to September 7:00-19:00
October to March of following year 7:00-18:00.
Underground Crypt: April to September 7:00-18:00
October to March of following year 7:00-17:00.
Dome: April to September 8:00-18:00
October to March of following year 8:00-17:00.
Transportation Get off at Ottaviano San Pietro Station on Metro Line A, or take tram number 19 and get off at Risorgimento-San Pietro, then walk for about 5 minutes.
"One of the greatest churches in the Catholic world."
