{"id":1411,"date":"2019-06-04T06:43:48","date_gmt":"2019-06-04T06:43:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vaticantour.com\/blog\/?p=1411"},"modified":"2020-07-17T06:18:56","modified_gmt":"2020-07-17T06:18:56","slug":"an-insiders-guide-to-st-peters-basilica","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vaticantour.com\/blog\/an-insiders-guide-to-st-peters-basilica","title":{"rendered":"An Insider\u2019s Guide to St. Peter\u2019s Basilica"},"content":{"rendered":"

Exploring St. Peter\u2019s Basilica is an absolute must-do when in Rome. Not only is it ornate and spectacular, but it is the classic symbol of Catholicism. Constructed over the tomb of St. Peter, the 2000-year old basilica draws thousands of tourists and worshippers from all over the world. Nevertheless, a visit to St. Peter\u2019s Basilica<\/a> is an overwhelming experience, especially during the peak season. Navigating through the labyrinthine corridors while being squashed by legions of tourists feels like an ordeal. Read on to know what to see and do when visiting this majestic Papal Basilica. Hope this quick guide is of help to you!<\/span><\/p>\n

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Interior of St. Peter\u2019s Basilica<\/span><\/h3>\n

Following Catholic tradition, St. Peter\u2019s Basilica sits upon the ancient burial site of the first bishop of Rome and one of Jesus\u2019 12 apostles, St. Peter. It is his final resting place as well as that of many past popes. The inside of the basilica is almost as interesting as the history behind its construction. Various famed Roman Renaissance maestros helped shape the architectural layout of the Basilica. However, Raphael, Giacomo della Porta, Donato, Bramante and Michelangelo were the key contributors. Don\u2019t miss admiring their awe-inspiring works of art, especially Bernini\u2019s bronzed canopy Baldacchino and Michelangelo\u2019s Renaissance masterpiece, Piet\u00e0; they exhibit incredible craftsmanship and finesse.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Vatican Necropolis<\/span><\/h3>\n

There are two levels underneath St. Peter\u2019s Basilica; the first one is the Vatican Grottoes and the level extending below it is called the Vatican Necropolis. Together they are known as the underground Scavi Complex. In the Vatican Grottoes, you will find 91 tombs of popes including that of John Paul II, whereas the latter houses St. Peter\u2019s Tomb as well as the holy shrine of Emperor Constantine, buildings, underground fountains and a medieval graffiti saying \u2018Peter Is Here\u2019. They are best explored with Vatican City guided tours<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The Cupola<\/span><\/h3>\n

To attain a whole new perspective on the Basilica, head skyward to the Cupola. Climb 551 steps to reach the pinnacle of the dome or take an elevator halfway up and then ascend the last 320 steps; the bird\u2019s eye view from the top overlooking the Vatican City is simply breathtaking! You can even marvel at the splendid vista of the altar and the nave below. The Michelangelo-designed dome rises up 450 feet making it the tallest structure to dominate the city skyline.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Meet the Pope<\/span><\/h3>\n

If you are in Rome and want to see the pope, your best bet is to take part in an audience. Every Wednesday morning, His Holiness Pope Francis holds a Papal Audience in the sprawling St. Peter\u2019s Square. It lasts for a couple of hours and attracts a heavy footfall. The ceremony begins with a humble greeting in different languages and concludes when the pope showers his Apostolic Blessing over the gathered crowd. In between, expect small readings and teaching sessions, all orated in Italian. The papal audience tickets<\/strong><\/a> are free but you have to make an early reservation to avoid the rush.<\/span><\/p>\n

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For more information on general audience or to combine your Vatican City tours<\/strong><\/a> with audience with the pope<\/strong><\/a>, reach us at Vatican Tours<\/strong><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

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