St Peter’s Basilica
Basilica di San PietroOne of Rome's absolute gems and a masterpiece of the Renaissance. Regarded as one of the holiest Roman Catholic sites.
Piazza San Pietro 00165 Roma, Italy
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More information about St Peter’s Basilica
The extraordinary Basilica di San Pietro (St Peter’s Basilica) draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Not only because it is one of the largest churches in the world and considered one of the holiest Catholic sites, but also because it is the pope's much-favored church for holding masses and yearly pilgrimage and is of huge architectural and artistic value.
The construction of the basilica took 110 years and many renowned artists—Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno and Bernini—were involved in its creation. You can’t help but wonder how such a work of art could be made or how Renaissance artists could be so skillful. Indeed, it is considered the finest Renaissance church ever built!
Of the variety of things to do at the Basilica, you can visit the burial site of St. Peter, the Vatican grotto, the vast and impressive Bramante's dome, the altar with Bernini's Baldacchino, the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, and Cathedra Petri. You’ll be surprised how much time you’ll want to spend here and it’s no wonder! You can also enjoy a repose in the Gardens of Vatican City. Make sure you have time to pay a visit to the Sistine Chapel. Vatican City is a stunner; there is so much to see.
One thing to try at St. Peter's Basilica is climbing the steps of the Cupole—you might pant a bit, but it is worth it, the views of the dome are remarkable. But if climbing is not for you, don’t worry, there is also an elevator. When you reach the roof, you can stop for a coffee and buy a little gift in the shop. It costs €6 to go up the steps and €7 for the elevator.
The red line (Linea A) of the Metro will take you in the direction of Batisttini; get off at Ottaviano-S. Pietro. Then it’s just a short walk along Via Ottaviano till you reach St. Peter's Square; the basilica is then right at the front. If arriving by foot from the city center, you only need to cross the Tiber river and follow Via Conciliazioni. The basilica is open daily and opening hours vary according to the season. Italian masses take place daily at 8:30 a.m. Please remember not to wear shorts or miniskirts and to ensure shoulders are covered when visiting.
Opening Hours
April to September 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
October to March 7 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Admission
Free entrance.
Contact
Phone: +39 698 83731
St Peter’s Basilica Pictures
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Attractions near to St Peter’s Basilica
ColosseumAn awe-inspiring sight and one of the majestic buildings built by the Romans. A must-visit while you're in Rome. |
Roman ForumFrom triumphal arches to the houses of Emperors, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill contain the remains of the heart of the Roman world. |
PantheonThe Pantheon is one of the Rome’s most famous attractions as well as one of the best preserved Roman buildings in the world. |
Trevi FountainA stunning, elaborate Baroque gem of a fountain. This famous sight is a must while in the city. Beautiful even at night. |
St Peter's SquareSquare outside the Basilica di San Pietro in the Vatican City. An Egyptian obelisk stands in the centre. |
Spanish Square & the Spanish StepsA monumental square with beautiful sights scattered around. The Spanish Steps are especially famous, but there is also a nice fountain and a French church. |
Sistine ChapelFamous for its architecture and its fresco paintings by Michelangelo, Sandro Botticelli, Pietro Perugino and others. |
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