Saint Peter's Basilica is the largest church building in Christendom and is one of the holiest sites of Christianity in the Catholic tradition. It is 190m long, the aisles are 58m wide, the nave is 45.50m high as far as the vault, the dome is about 136m high as far as the cross. It can host 20,000 people.
It is located in Vatican City, a landlocked sovereign city-state whose territory consists of a walled enclave within the city of Rome. At approximately 108.7 acres, it is thought to be the smallest independent state in the world.
Construction on the current basilica began in 1506 and was completed in 1626.
There are over 100 tombs located within this magnificent building, which include 91 popes. The most recent interment was Pope John Paul II, on April 8, 2005.
Hightlights inside the basilica include Michelangelo's Pietà; and a 29 metres tall baldachin held by four immense pillars, designed by Bernini between 1624 and 1632.
You can walk up the massive dome (design started by Michelangelo, finished by Giacomo della Porta), for great views of the city.
Directly to the east of the church is the impressive St Peter's Square (Piazza di San Pietro), built by Gianlorenzo Bernini between 1656 and 1667. The measurements of the square are 320m deep, its diameter is 240m and it is surrounded by 284 columns, set out in rows of four, and 88 pilasters. Papal blessings take place every Sunday at noon, except in summer.
The Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani), founded by Pope Julius II in the 16th Century, are located a short walk from Saint Peter's. Displaying works from the extensive collection of the Roman Catholic Church. The Sistine Chapel and the Stanze della Segnatura decorated by Raphael are some of the hightlights. (Expect long queues, over 2 hours in high season)
Opening Hours
Basilica daily 7am - 6pm (6pm in summer)
Dome from 8am
Prices
Free entry to the basilica
Fees for certain attractions (climbing the Dome etc)
How to Get There
Metro Red A Line: Ottaviano-S.Pietro
or BUS: 64
External Links
Official Vatican Web Site
Wikipedia
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