The St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica Papale di San Pietro in Vaticano) in Vatican City, built in 1626, is the most renowned work of Italian Renaissance architecture in the world. Designed by Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, it is regarded as one of the holiest shrines of the Catholic Church. The basilica is considered to be the burial place of Saint Peter, one of Jesus's Apostles and also the first Bishop of Rome. Saint Peter lies exactly under the high altar of the Basilica.
Visitors can access the Basilica for free, but the line is rather long. You have a chance to avoid crowds if you are there by 7 a.m. when the Basilica opens for the public. Another best time to visit St. Peter's Basilica is after 4 p.m. when the crowds are usually gone. Papal Audience takes place on Wednesdays so the basilica might be closed for visitors until noon or even later.
To complete your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, you have to see the cupola—a stunning dome painted by Michelangelo. You can either take the elevator or steep stairs. If you manage to get a ticket, visit a mysterious Scavi underneath the Basilica where the access is restricted. It is also called the Vatican Necropolis, or St. Peter’s Tomb. This burial ground dates back to the 4th century. Visitors can also see the temple of Emperor Constantine, fountains and buildings. There is also the large crypt network called the Vatican Grottoes where many popes are buried.
Practical info
When can I visit St. Peter's Basilica to avoid crowds?
The best time to stroll around St. Peter's Basilica calmly is either very early in the morning around 7 a.m. or late in the afternoon after 4 p.m. If it happens that you would visit the basilica, and there are papal events that might halt or delay it, it's either recommended to be in touch with the Vatican portal or visit any other day. Show more
How can I access Saint Peter's burial tomb when I visit the Basilica?
Beneath the Vatican Grottoes' level, the sacred resting place of Saint Peter's tomb is situated under the high altar of the Basilica. As it is inaccessible to the public, visitors keen on seeing it have the chance to visit a restricted area - the Scavi. A reservation is required to visit the Scavi as the Vatican committee allows only a limited number of visitors daily. Show more
What is the Scavi, and how does one obtain permission to visit it?
Scavi is a fourth-century ancient cemetery area housing St. Peter's Tomb. Despite being part of Vatican City, it's not available to the public without permission. Visitors must make arrangements to visit the Scavi by scheduling a tour in advance through the Vatican Excavations Office. To ensure your reservation is accepted, please include in your request the time and date of your preferred tour and valid identification documents. Show more
Which artist created the Dome, and what's the best way to see it up close?
Michelangelo crafted the Dome of St. Peter's Basilica, which was finished by Giacomo della Porta 26 years after Michelangelo's passing. To get a better look at the Dome, one must walk towards the altar and crane their neck upwards or ascend the staircase or elevator to the top of the dome. Because the walk can be steep and crowded during peak hours, it is advised to visit during off-hours. Show more
Apart from the tombs, are there any other points of interest for visitors at the Vatican Grottoes?
In addition to the tombs, many sites deserve interest within the Vatican Grottoes - a crypt network; visitors may see the temple of Emperor Constantine, a range of buildings, and several fountains. Several chapels and altars dedicated to prior Popes are also available beneath the Grottoes, providing opportunities to pray and pay homage. Many antiques made of copper, marble, or silver, including a statue of St. Peter, are also featured. Show more
