Why to visit St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter's Basilica is one of Christendom's holiest temples and one of the world's largest churches. Furthermore, it is here that the Pope presides over several liturgies throughout the year.
St. Peter's Basilica is the universal headquarters of the Catholic Church as well as the Pope's home, and it is located in Vatican City. The current Basilica, which is based on the Constantinian Basilica, is the result of the Renaissance Popes' desire to take us on a journey through art, faith, and spirituality, guided by great artists such as Bramante, Michelangelo, Bernini, and Maderno. We can not only admire the building's magnificence, but also walk through its corridors, visit the chapels, and marvel at the beauty of numerous works of art, such as Michelangelo's The tombs of the Popes, which are located in the Vati grottos, can currently be visited.
Visitors should not skip ascending to the top of the dome, where they will be rewarded with a breathtaking view over St Peter's Square and, if the weather permits, the rest of the city. The last half of the ascent is a tight and steep spiral staircase, which may prove to be a little uncomfortable for some.