Saint Peter’s Basilica

The largest church in the world by interior floor area, Saint Peter’s Basilica stands over the traditional tomb of the apostle for whom it is named, at the heart of Vatican City. It is not the cathedral of Rome — that distinction belongs to St. John Lateran — but it is the principal papal church, one of the four Papal Major Basilicas, and one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches.

Highlights

Michelangelo’s Pietà, and his design for the dome, completed by Giacomo della Porta and Domenico Fontana
Bernini’s bronze Baldacchino over the papal altar, and his Chair of St. Peter (Cathedra Petri) in the apse
The tomb of St. Peter beneath the high altar, along with relics including the Holy Lance and a fragment of the True Cross
Carlo Maderno’s façade and the 15th-century Filarete Door
Six bells, including the 14th-century ‘Rota’ and the 8,950-kilogram ‘Campanone,’ tolled for papal deaths and elections

Opening Hours

Daily (from June 1): 7:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Hours vary around papal general audiences and events (opens later after morning papal events, closes earlier before evening ones). Free entry, security screening, strict dress code (knees and shoulders covered).

Address

Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City

Saint Peter’s Basilica

Highlights

Opening Hours

Address

Official Website