St. Peter’s Basilica lies in the heart of Vatican City. It is a breathtaking monument of faith, history, and art. Millions of visitors visit St. Peter’s Basilica each year to admire its magnificent architecture and century-old treasures. The religious significance of the place cannot be undermined either, as it is the resting place of St. Peter himself. If you are planning to visit any time soon, here are must-visit sights in St. Peter’s Basilica.
This guide will help you explore every must-visit sight in St. Peter’s Basilica.
St. Peter’s Baldachin (Baldacchino)
Bernini’s bronze masterpiece, the Baldachin, is the centrepiece of the basilica. This bronze canopy stands 30 meters (98 feet) high and weighs over 100 tons; it shelters the papal altar and is the symbol of the grandeur of the Catholic Church.
Bernini made the Baldachin with bronze from the Pantheon’s portico. Ornate details like spiralling Solomonic columns and golden embellishments such as the gold leaf adorn the structure. The structure is a true masterpiece of Baroque architecture.
Don’t miss the chance to appreciate the Baldachin with St. Peter’s Basilica Audio Tour.
Visitor Tip: Stand near the base of Baldachin to fully appreciate its scale and intricate details.
The Dome, or La Cupola
Designed by Michelangelo and completed by Giacomo della Porta, the dome is a must-visit sight in St. Peter’s Basilica. It is a marvel of Renaissance architecture. One can view the dome from various locations across Rome. The dome stands 448 feet tall and is topped with a lantern that filters the natural light to highlight the beautiful interior of the basilica.
When you stand beneath the dome, you see the vibrant mosaics and inscriptions in Latin that add to the internal beauty of the dome. For a breathtaking experience, you can climb the dome using an elevator or take the stairs.
Make sure you get your St. Peter’s Dome climb tickets in advance. With the Rome St. Peter’s Basilica and Cupola Guided Tour, you get to skip the long waiting lines.
Visitor Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and grab lots of water. The climb is narrow and steep.
Pietà, by Michelangelo
Pietà is one of Michelangelo’s best sculptural works. Carved into marble, it is an exquisite depiction of the Virgin Mary cradling the lifeless body of Jesus Christ. He created the sculpture when he was just 24 years old. It remains one of the most iconic sculptures in the world because of its delicate details. From Mary’s serene expression to the folds of her robe, it is a masterpiece of Renaissance art.
Visitor Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds.
St. Peter’s Tomb and the Confessio
St. Peter was one of Jesus’s apostles and the first pope. His tomb lies beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. The Confessio is an area that provides access to St. Peter’s tomb. Emperor Nero executed St. Peter, whose remains reside in the sacred site. The illuminated 99 oil lamps are a symbol of eternal faith. For an extra spiritual tour, book St. Peter’s Basilica Digital Audio Guide Tour of the Scavi (excavations) to see the ancient necropolis and the tomb itself. Consider a St. Peter’s Basilica audio tour to understand the historical site’s rich history.
Visitor Tip: Book a Scavi Tour in advance, as access to the tomb is restricted and requires special permission.
St. Peter’s Chair (Cathedra Petri)
St. Peter’s Chair is located at the back of the basilica. Bernini’s Cathedra Petri is a beautifully decorated piece to hold a wooden throne that belonged to St. Peter. Golden angels and rays of light from the stained glass windows depicting the Holy Spirit surround the artwork.
According to legend, the Apostle delivered religious sermons at Cathedra Petri. The celebration of St. Peter’s Chair takes place on February 22, making it a special day in its history. The chair is a symbol of episcopal power, responsibility, and the ongoing role of the pope.
Visitor tip: Plan to visit late in the afternoon when the natural light is streaming through the stained-glass window.
The Holy Door (Porta Sancta)
The Holy Door is a bronze door located to the far right of the main entrance. It is only opened during the Jubilee years, typically every 25 years. People recognize it as a symbol of passage to salvation. It is a major attraction for pilgrims because they walk through it as an act of spiritual renewal and forgiveness.
The door features scenes from the Bible, including the expulsion of Adam and Eve from Eden and the resurrection of Christ. When closed, the craftsmanship of the door is worth admiring.
Visitor Tip: Check if the holy door will be open during your visit.
The Statue of St. Peter
One must-visit sight in St. Peter’s Basilica is the statue of St. Peter. Arnolfo di Cambio created the bronze statue in the 13th century, depicting St. Peter seated on a throne. The statue holds the keys to heaven in one hand and gives blessings in the other. Pilgrims touch or kiss the statue’s right foot for blessings and a token of respect.
Visitor Tip: Join the line of pilgrims to participate in the old tradition of kissing the apostle’s foot.
The Nave
The nave is the central aisle of St. Peter’s Basilica. It is an awe-inspiring space and a must-visit sight in St. Peter’s Basilica. Its size and grandeur reflect the basilica’s role as the symbol of the Catholic Church’s power and influence. Marble floors, towering columns, and statues of saints and popes adorn the nave. The golden ceilings have inscriptions in Latin, including the famous words from Matthew 16:18: “You are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church.”
Visitor Tip: Pause in the nave and look toward the dome for a stunning view.
The Treasury Museum
The Treasury Museum houses various collections of artefacts, relics, and treasures belonging to the Vatican. Items on display include chalices, crosses, papal tiaras, and vestments used by past Popes. The museum is a depiction of the church’s rich history and artistic heritage. With St. Peter’s Basilica audio tour, you get to know more about the intricate details of all artefacts.
Visitor Tip: There is a small entry fee, but the experience is worth it.
Chapels and Altars
St. Peter’s Basilica is home to numerous chapels and altars. Each has a unique historical significance and artistic touch. Must-visit sights in St. Peter’s Basilica include:
The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament: Beautifully decorated with gold and marble, the chapel is a quiet space for prayer and reflection.
The Altar of St. Sebastian: This altar is a popular pilgrimage site, and it is where the tomb of Pope John Paul II resides.
Visitor Tip: Spend extra time in the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament for a moment of peace.
The Mosaic Artwork
The mosaics in St. Peter’s Basilica are the finest in the world. These artworks, covering walls, ceilings, and domes, depict Biblical scenes, saints, and angels in incredible detail and colour. Created with tiny tiles rather than paint, mosaics ensure durability and can last for centuries.
Visitor Tip: Don’t miss the apse mosaic behind the Papal Altar.
More Visitor Tips
The ideal times for a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica are early in the morning or late in the afternoon. You can avoid peak timings at these hours.
There’s a specific dress code for visiting St. Peter’s Basilica. Make sure to cover your shoulders and knees.
Avoid flash photography.
Joining St. Peter’s Basilica audio tour comes with benefits. You can learn about the art and history of the basilica in detail.
With St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Entry Ticket Audio Guided Tour, skip the long queues for the dome climb.
Conclusion
St. Peter’s Basilica is a masterpiece that blends faith, history, and art. Every must-visit sight in St. Peter’s Basilica offers a unique story, and it is an opportunity to connect with the devotion and creativity that led to the standing marvel. Every corner leaves a lasting impression.