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St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)
This great building is the center of christianity and is the largest church in the world and center of the Roman catholic faith.

The first church was build here on the site of St. Peter’s tomb, by Emperor Constantine in AD 349. In the 15th century Pope Julius II ordered the building of a new stone church and appointed Donato Bramante in 1503 as a chief architect of St. Peter’s Basilica. He was succeeded by Michelangelo in 1547. The dome of the church was designed by Michelangelo and is 136.5m (448f) high and 42 m () in diameter. The nave of St. Peter’s is 218m (715 ft) and the basilica has 45 altars and 11 chapels.

In 1614 the façade was finished by Carlo Maderno and in 1626 St. Peter’s was consecrated. The greatest architects and artists of the Renaissance were involved in the building and designing of this grandest church.

Significant works of art include the Pietà by Michelangelo, the papal altar Baldacchino and the Throne of St. Peter - by Bernini.

An elevator bring you to the top of the dome where you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Rome and Saint Peter's square.

Where is St. Peter’s Basilica - St. Peter’s Square - Piazza San Pietro, Vatican city

How to get to St. Peter’s Basilica – By Metro line A to station Ottaviano San Pietro.

Opening hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00PM; October to March to 6:00 PM
The Dome is open from 8:00AM to 5:45 PM

Don’t forget that bare knees and shoulders are not permitted.

St Peter's Basilica, Rome


St Peter's Basilica, Rome


St. Peter's Basilica inside, Rome



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