The Basilica of St. Peter, officially known as Basilica di San Pietro in Vaticano, is more than a big church. It is the burial site of St. Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. It is located in the Vatican City not part of Italy. It is noted for its art. - Bernini's colonnade and baldacchino. Michelangelo's Pietà and cupola. - It is considered one of the greatest buildings of its time, both Renaissance and Baroque. It is protected by Swiss Guards in funny costume. And while Saint John Lateran, the first church in Rome, is the true seat of the Pope he almost always presides at St. Peter's Basilica.