The ancient Egyptian obelisk at the centre of St. Peter’s Square gives you a clear focal point amid the Vatican’s monumental setting. It stands 25.5 metres tall, with a cross on top, and rises to more than 40 metres including its base. Pope Sixtus V had it moved to its present position in front of the new St. Peter’s church. Look up at the obelisk, then frame it with the Basilica behind it. The square is worth a visit on its own, even if you do not enter the church.
An ancient obelisk at the square’s centre
The obelisk stands at the centre of St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. It is 25.5 metres tall; with its base, the total height is more than 40 metres. A cross crowns its top.
Pope Sixtus V had the obelisk moved to its current position in front of the new St. Peter’s church. Today, it gives the broad square a central point to look towards as you take in the Basilica and its surroundings.
A focal point for your visit
Pause near the obelisk to appreciate its scale, then look back towards the Basilica. The two make a strong subject for a photograph, with the ancient monument in the foreground and the church behind it.
The square is rewarding to explore even if you do not go into St. Peter’s Basilica. For a quieter atmosphere, visit early in the morning or in the evening. On Sundays around noon, Pope Francis may speak or pray briefly from his window.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the St. Peter Square Obelisk?
It stands at the centre of St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, in front of St. Peter’s Basilica.
How tall is the obelisk?
The obelisk is 25.5 metres tall. Including its base, it rises to more than 40 metres.
When is a quieter time to visit?
Early morning and evening are recommended for a quieter visit to the square.
