Famous for its towering dome, St. Peter’s Basilica is the icon of the Vatican state as well as a vaunted artistic symbol of the Late Renaissance and Baroque periods.
It is said that the site on which the basilica stands was the spot where Peter from Galilee, one of Jesus’s 12 disciples, was killed on the orders of Emperor Nero when he trekked to Rome after the crucifixion of Christ. He is said to have died close by the still-standing Egyptian obelisk, at a spot that was marked by worshippers by a red rock, until a shrine was placed there, and then finally the original St. Peter’s Basilica was built in 360 AD.
This structure was made of wood, and survived for over 1000 years until the 15th century when it fell into disrepair. In 1506, it was Pope Julius II who oversaw the construction of a new basilica, before legendary Renaissance masters joined the project over the course of a century to design and create the impressive monument which remains today, finally opening the new basilica in November 1626.
Now it is a major attraction for Catholics the world over, as well as for art and architecture lovers who come to marvel at its stunning exterior, to which Bramante, Raphael and Michelangelo all contributed.
The interiors, however, are what truly inspire awe. You’ll discover Bernini and Giotto frescoes and mosaics, alongside Michelangelo’s Pietà, Arnolfo di Cambio’s Saint Peter sculptures, Vico Consorti’s Holy Door, and Bernini’s stunning altar. You’ll also see tombs of famous Vatican legends, from St. Peter through to Pope John Paul II.
Situated in central Rome, the basilica opens daily but with varying opening hours depending on the time of year. The Vatican Museums are also closed on Sundays, although they open on the last Sunday of the month.The basilica is easy to reach by crossing the Tiber and walking up Via della Conciliazione. If you’re taking the Metro, alight at Ottaviano station and stroll along Via Ottaviano.
