St. Peter's Basilica

The majestic St. Peter's Basilica, the hub of the Vatican and one of the top tourist destinations, was constructed between the 16th and 18th century to replace earlier structures that had been built beginning in 326 on the site where it is believed that St. Peter is buried. Ironically, Martin Luther was spurred to start the Protestant Reformation by the selling of indulgences to pay for this structure in the 16th century. This is one of the Best Places to Visit in Vatican City.

Before you even step foot inside the church, you can see the works of renowned artists: a Bernini mosaic fragment over the main doorway and an equestrian statue of Constantine on a horse in the portico. Both the twin bronze doors and it are original to the old church.

A congregation of more than 60,000 people may fit inside the enormous nave, which is 185 meters long and 46 meters tall and rises to a dome 119 meters above. Compare it to other large churches that have their floor measurements marked. Behind reinforced glass, to your right, is Michelangelo's well-known Pietà, which he created when he was only 24 years old. The lavishly decorated Chapel of the Sacrament, which also has Bernini's tabernacle and his rival Borromini's bronze grille, is also on the right.

The Papal Altar is located underneath Michelangelo's dome, which is supported by four enormous pentagonal piers, and Bernini's beautiful Baroque bronze baldacchino (canopy). St. Peter's tomb is located below. Bernini also created the bronze throne in the apse, which is surrounded by papal tombs. Other Popes' tombs can be found in the right aisle.

The roof's stairs are located close to the Baptistery, and a lift can be found outside close to the Gregorian Chapel. From the roof, you can ascend 330 steep steps within the dome to the lantern for a closer look at the dome's architecture and stunning views of St. Peter's Square. The Vatican Necropolis is located beneath St. Peter's Basilica and is home to the graves of various prior popes as well as what is thought to be St. Peter's remains.

Address: St. Peter's Square Vatican City

Phone: +39 338 346 5230

Opening hours: 8:30 am - 6 pm

Rating: 5.0/5.0, 41332 Tripadvisor reviews

Website: www.stpetersbasilica.info