Saint Peter’s Basilica stands in Saint Peter’s Square in Vatican City, within Rome. Its vast interior brings Renaissance and Baroque art together, including Michelangelo’s marble Pietà and Bernini’s bronze canopy over the papal altar. Look up to see Michelangelo’s dome, then consider climbing for views across the square and Rome. The basilica is free to enter, but security queues can take time. Arrive early, dress respectfully and leave room in your plans to explore the chapels and artwork at a considered pace.
A church shaped by Renaissance and Baroque artists
Saint Peter’s Basilica stands in Vatican City, at the end of Saint Peter’s Square. The church visitors see today replaced an earlier basilica on the site, traditionally associated with the burial place of Saint Peter. Construction of the present building began in the early 16th century and was completed in 1626.
Several leading artists and architects contributed to its design, including Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The result brings Renaissance architecture together with later Baroque work. The building’s scale is apparent from the square, but the interior gives you a closer sense of its size, with a Latin-cross plan, side chapels and a dome above the central altar.
Art to look for inside
Michelangelo’s Pietà is in the first chapel on the right as you enter. The marble sculpture shows Mary holding Jesus after the crucifixion. Nearby, Antonio Canova’s monument to Clement XIII and Pollaiolo’s tomb of Innocent VIII are among the other works in the basilica.
At the high altar, look for Bernini’s bronze baldachin, a large canopy that rises beneath the dome. The dome itself was designed by Michelangelo. Scripture runs around its interior in letters reported to be two metres high. Take time to look upward as you move through the church; the dome and the artwork below it are key parts of the visit.
The dome and the visit
Climbing the dome gives you a view over Saint Peter’s Square, Vatican City and Rome. There is a fee to access it, and the climb includes steep stairs. An elevator takes you part of the way, but stairs remain on the route.
The basilica itself is free to enter. You must pass through a security checkpoint, and queues can become long, so an early start can help you spend more of your visit inside. Allow time to explore beyond the best-known works: the interior includes a series of chapels, and the papal altar, dome and sculpture each reward a closer look.
FAQ
Is Saint Peter’s Basilica free to enter?
Yes. Entry to the basilica is free. Access to the dome costs extra.
How long do you need at Saint Peter’s Basilica?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours to explore the interior and its major artworks. Add time if you plan to climb the dome.
What should I wear to Saint Peter’s Basilica?
Dress respectfully and cover your shoulders and knees. Dress rules are enforced.
Can you climb the dome at Saint Peter’s Basilica?
Yes. Dome access costs extra, and the climb includes steep stairs. An elevator covers part of the route.
