St. Peter's Basilica
Let's start with one of the most beautiful historical sites in Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica was constructed between 1506 and 1626 on the site of an emperor Constantine the Great's cathedral (324). According to legend, Peter's burial was located in this church. Bramante, Raphael, Antonio del Sangallo, Michelangelo, and Carlo Maderno were among the designers who worked on St. Peter's Basilica since it took so long to complete. Gian Lorenzo Bernini is responsible for many of the Basilica's embellishments.
Besides, St. Peter's Basilica is one of Christendom's holiest temples and one of the world's largest cathedrals. Furthermore, it is here that the Pope presides over several liturgies throughout the year. The Basilica's proportions – 136 meters high and 186 meters broad – are one of its most striking features. Michelangelo's Pietà, Bernini's baldachin over the main altar, the statue of St. Longinus in the crossing, Urban VIII's tomb, and the bronze cathedra of St. Peter in the apse are just a few of the treasures of Renaissance and Baroque art that can be found inside St. Peter's.
Bernini also created the monument of Alexander VII Chigi (left nave). A golden person holding an hourglass depicts the passage of time and the inevitable death that all of us will face. The crypts containing the 148 popes' tombs (catacombs) can also be visited via a different entrance. Additionally, you have the option of climbing the dome. After climbing 550 steps, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular view of Rome and the Vatican. After going through security, proceed to the right side of the Basilica to find a ticket window. Tickets for the dome may be purchased here (8 euros). You may either walk all of the stairs or pay an additional 2 euros to use a lift part of the way. The Pope's 'Urbi et Orbi' addresses at Easter and Christmas have made the huge piazza at the Vatican famous. The Pope holds a liturgy here every Wednesday, weather permitting, and if he is in Rome.
Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
