St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square is one of the most impressive sights in Rome.
Largest basilica in the world
On the orders of the Emperor Nero, the Apostle Paul is said to have been crucified and buried in what is now the Vatican. In the 4th century, Emperor Constantine had a basilica, called Old St. Peter's, built over Peter's tomb.
At the beginning of the 16th century it was decided to build a new church because of the dilapidation. Numerous artists were involved in the construction, which took 120 years, among them Raphael and Michelangelo. The project was financed with the so-called St. Peter's pence and the indulgence trade. It was during this time that the church split, as indulgences for St. Peter's were a reason for the Reformation. St. Peter's Basilica combines three stylistic periods, the Renaissance, Mannerism and Baroque. Within the construction period, many architects tried their hand at the project and there was never a blueprint. Nevertheless, the building still looks perfect and unified in connection with the St. Peter's Square designed by Bernini.
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View of St. Peter's Square from St. Peter's Basilica[/caption]
Underneath the basilica are the Vatican grottoes. This is where the tomb of St. Peter is located. The tombs of Pope Paul VI and Pope John Paul II can also be found here.
On Wednesdays at 10:00 am, visitors can attend a general audience with the Pope, during which time the cathedral cannot be visited. For the audience, a reservation must be made 14 days in advance at the Pilgrimage Center.
Admission to St. Peter's Basilica, which is open between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., and until 6 p.m. in winter, is free. If you want to enjoy the spectacular view from the roof of the cathedral, you can take a lift to the roof for 7 euros between 8.00 and 17.00 (as of 09/2011).
Tip of the editors
St. Peter's Basilica is probably the largest and most magnificent church in Christendom. In addition to visiting the church and the square, visitors should not miss the climb to the dome of St. Peter's Basilica. The view over the Vatican and all of Rome is breathtaking. As with many other churches, visitors to St. Peter's are subject to a dress code, and shoulders and knees should be covered. Sandals are also often not accepted.
