Visiting St. Peter's Basilica in Rome: Everything You Need to Know

St. Peter's Basilica, located in the heart of Vatican City, is one of the most iconic sites in Rome and the Christian world. This basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, was designed by geniuses such as Michelangelo and Bernini. Housing priceless works of art such as the Pietà and the Baldachin of Bernini, it attracts millions of visitors each year. Discover here everything you need to know for a memorable visit to St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

What works of art are must-sees inside St. Peter's Basilica in Rome?

The must-see works of art inside St. Peter's Basilica in Rome are:

1. Michelangelo's Pietà
   A sculptural masterpiece by Michelangelo, this moving marble statue depicts the Virgin Mary holding the body of Christ after the crucifixion. Located to the right as you enter the basilica, it is one of the most famous works of art in the world.
2. Bernini's Baldachin
   An impressive gilded bronze baldachin created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. It stands above the main altar and marks the location of St. Peter's tomb.
3. The Chair of St. Peter (Cathedra Petri)
   A monumental work by Bernini, this symbolic episcopal chair is framed by statues of the Fathers of the Church and illuminated by a window depicting the dove of the Holy Spirit.
4. The Bronze Statue of St. Peter
   A medieval statue depicting St. Peter sitting, holding the keys to heaven. The faithful touch or kiss his right foot as a sign of devotion, which has polished it over the centuries.
5. The Monument to Alexander VII
   Tomb of Pope Alexander VII by Bernini, it depicts the pope in prayer on his tomb, with an allegory of Time (a skeleton holding an hourglass) emerging from below.
6. Michelangelo's Dome
   An architectural feat offering spectacular views both inside and out. The interior is adorned with detailed mosaics and scriptural messages.
7. The Monument to Urban VIII
   Another work by Bernini, this tomb depicts Pope Urban VIII blessing the faithful, accompanied by allegories of Charity and Justice.
8. The Chapel of the Holy Sacrament
   Designed by Bernini, this chapel houses a bronze and lapis lazuli tabernacle and is reserved for silent prayer and adoration.
9. The Mosaics of the Nave
   The basilica is richly decorated with mosaics depicting saints, popes and biblical scenes, replacing paintings for better durability.
10. The Monument to Gregory XIII
    Created by Camillo Rusconi, this monument honors the pope who reformed the calendar (Gregorian calendar), with allegorical figures and bas-reliefs.
11. The Monument to Clement XIII
    A neoclassical masterpiece by Antonio Canova, it shows the pope in prayer, guarded by two majestic lions symbolizing vigilance.
12. The Statue of St. Longinus
    Marble sculpture by Bernini depicting the Roman soldier who pierced the side of Jesus and who converted after recognizing his divinity.
13. The Gregorian Chapel
    It houses sacred relics and ancient mosaics, including the icon of the Virgin and Child, reputed to be miraculous.
14. The Monument to Pius VII
    A work by Bertel Thorvaldsen, this monument depicts Pope Pius VII in a humble posture, framed by the figures of Strength and Wisdom.
15. The Tomb of St. John Paul II
    A place of remembrance for many faithful, this tomb pays tribute to the beloved pope who was canonized in 2014.
16. The Angels Carrying the Instruments of the Passion
    Located on the pillars supporting the dome, these sculptures represent angels holding the symbols of Christ's Passion, such as the crown of thorns.
17. The Monument to Leo XI
    Created by Alessandro Algardi, this tomb pays tribute to Pope Leo XI, accompanied by allegorical figures of Magnanimity and Simplicity.
18. The Clementine Chapel
    One of the oldest chapels, dedicated to St. Clement, with an ornate altar and precious mosaics.
19. The Vatican Grottoes (Crypt of the Popes)
    Located under the basilica, they house the tombs of many popes and saints, including the supposed tomb of St. Peter.
20. The Frescoes and Decorations of the Dome
    The interior of the dome is adorned with magnificent mosaics and Latin inscriptions, offering an impressive visual experience as you look up to the top.

These artistic and spiritual treasures make St. Peter's Basilica a unique place in the world, where art and faith come together to amaze every visitor.

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Where can I book my visit to St. Peter's Basilica in Rome?

Visiting St. Peter's Basilica is free, you don't need a ticket even though some resellers offer them. However, a ticket may be required to access certain sections, such as climbing the dome or if you want a guided tour. You can book these tickets online on the Tripwizy St. Peter's Basilica page.

What are the opening hours of St. Peter's Basilica and the Dome?

Generally, the Dome opens at 7:30am and closes at 5pm in winter or 6pm in summer.

St. Peter's Basilica is open from 7am and closes at 7:10pm.

You can check the current hours on the Tripwizy app here or on the official website of the Basilica.

How long should I plan for a visit to St. Peter's Basilica in Rome?

For a complete visit to St. Peter's Basilica, including the dome, it is recommended to allow about 2 to 3 hours (not including any possible waiting time). If you want to explore the crypts or attend a mass, you may need more time. Visiting the dome alone, which offers spectacular panoramic views of Rome, can take about an hour. If you include a guided tour or a papal audience, this could extend your experience to half a day.

Our advice: if possible, arrive early at 7am, at the opening (generally the basilica opens at 7am and the dome at 7:30am), to quickly go through security checks and avoid queues. Start by visiting the dome before the world arrives. And then visit the rest of the basilica at your leisure.

What is the best time to visit St. Peter's Basilica to avoid the crowds?

The best time to visit St. Peter's Basilica is early in the morning, as soon as it opens at 7:00am, or late afternoon, around 4:00pm. The busiest times are generally between 10:00am and 2:00pm, especially on weekends or holidays. Even if entry is free, security checks are carried out at the entrance and this can cause long queues. The winter months, outside of the Christmas holidays, tend to be less crowded than the summer months.

How can I attend a papal audience or a mass at St. Peter's Basilica?

To attend a papal audience, which takes place on Wednesday mornings, it is necessary to book free tickets via the Prefecture of the Papal Household. To attend a mass at the basilica, you don't need a reservation, but it is recommended to arrive early, especially for major celebrations such as Christmas or Easter. Masses are celebrated daily in several chapels of the basilica.

Are guided tours available to learn more about the history and architecture of the basilica?

Yes, guided tours are available to discover the history and architecture of St. Peter's Basilica. These tours can be booked online via platforms like those of the Vatican. On Tripwizy, you will find a selection of guided tours of St. Peter's Basilica offered by different partners. Some tours include access to the dome, the crypt of the popes, and even the necropolis under the basilica, where St. Peter's tomb is located. These tours offer enriching commentary on the works of art, architects such as Michelangelo and Bernini, and the history of the sacred site.

What are the main other sites to visit around St. Peter's Basilica in Rome?

Around St. Peter's Basilica, you will find several must-see sites. St. Peter's Square, with its majestic colonnades designed by Bernini, is an iconic place. Right next door, you can visit the Vatican Museums, which house the famous Sistine Chapel. A short walk away, you will also find the Castel Sant'Angelo, a former papal fortress offering breathtaking views over Rome. The Trastevere district, on the other side of the Tiber, is also a charming place to stroll and discover authentic Rome.

Whether you are a believer or an art and architecture enthusiast, a visit to St. Peter's Basilica promises an unforgettable experience. Explore its wonders and be inspired by the grandeur of this unique place.

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We would love to hear your thoughts on St. Peter's Basilica. Share your experiences, your highlights, and your advice for other visitors. Whether you are moved by the architecture, the spiritual atmosphere or the artistic treasures, your comments will enrich the community of Rome enthusiasts.

To delve deeper into your discovery of the major basilicas of Rome, check out our page dedicated to the four major basilicas and learn about the importance of the Jubilee 2025. These events and sacred places are must-see stops for visitors seeking history and spirituality.

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