St. Peter's Basilica, Rome
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.
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Getting there
The Vatican and St. Peter's Square are a long walk from most sites in Rome. Take Metro Line A to Ottaviano (San Pietro / Musei Vaticani) and walk 4-5 short city blocks or take a city bus to Piazza Risorgimento, Borgo Pio, Borgo Angelico, Borgo Vittorio or Via Crescenzio.
Opening hours
The Basilica is open daily, except Wednesday, 7:00 - 18:00 in winter, 7:00 - 19:00 in summer. On Wednesdays when there is a papal audience St. Peter's opens at 12:00. The dome is open 8:00 to 16:45 in winter and 8:00 to 16:45 in summer.
Fees
Entrance to the Basilica is free. A fee is charged to visit the dome.
Things to keep in mind
When you stand at either of the two focal points of the ellipse, the Colonnade in St. Peter's Square, only one row of columns is visible.
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