St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican

The Basilica of St. Peter in the Vatican State is the seat of the main manifestations of Catholic worship and on the occasion of the papal celebrations it is in solemn function. For example, for the rites of Holy Week, Easter, Christmas, the proclamation of new popes, the canonizations of new saints, the opening and closing of jubilees.

It is one of the four papal basilicas of Rome and is the largest basilica in the world with an incredible number of visitors who every year want to admire the works kept inside. Among the beauties found inside St. Peter's Basilica are Michelangelo's Pietà, the Chair of St. Peter, the gilded bronze tomb of Innocent VIII made by Pollaiolo, Canova's monument to Clement XIII, and the canopy above the papal altar.

Entering the Basilica you are captivated by its enormous beauty. An immense space in Baroque style that measures 218 meters long and 136 meters high up to its dome. The facade is almost 115 meters wide and 45 meters high. In the naves there are 45 altars and 11 chapels.

The visit of the Basilica is free but if you want to learn more about the history and details, a guided tour is strongly recommended.

The works began in 1506 at the behest of Pope Julius II who wanted a building to replace the previous one consecrated in 326.

There worked artists such as Bramante and Michelangelo who took care of the splendid dome.