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Church · Roma, Lazio
Basilica di San Pietro
The largest church in the Vatican, with Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's baldachin. Entry is free; the climb to the dome requires a ticket. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Basilica di San Pietro
The Basilica di San Pietro was erected over the site where, according to tradition, the apostle Peter was buried. The current church replaced Constantine's basilica and was built between 1506 and 1626, with designs by Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Immediately to the right of the entrance is the Pietà, which Michelangelo sculpted when he was young, protected by glass. In the center, above the papal altar, stands Bernini's bronze baldachin. At the back, the Chair of Saint Peter, also by Bernini, is lit by a stained-glass window with the dove of the Holy Spirit.
The dome, designed by Michelangelo and completed after his death, is one of Rome's landmarks. The climb can be entirely on foot or with an elevator up to the terrace, then continuing up the final steps, narrow and steep between the dome's two shells. From the top you can see the Piazza San Pietro, the Vatican gardens and the center of Rome.
The basilica is located in the Vatican City, a different State, but there is no passport control. There is a security check at the entrance, under the colonnade, and clothing must cover shoulders and knees. During celebrations, parts of the church may be closed to visitors.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One hour for the basilica. The climb to the dome takes another hour, including the queue and the descent.
Best time
Early in the morning, right when it opens, the security line is usually shorter. Avoid times of major celebrations, when access may be restricted.
How to get there
Metrô linha A, stations Ottaviano or Cipro, and a 10–15 minute walk. From the historic center, cross the Tibre via the Ponte Sant'Angelo and continue along the Via della Conciliazione.
Tip
Anyone with heart problems or a fear of tight spaces should avoid the final stretch of the dome, which has hundreds of steps and narrow passages. Wear appropriate clothing: shorts and tank tops are not allowed at the entrance.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Basilica di San Pietro
Is there an admission fee for the Basílica de São Pedro?
No, entry to the basilica is free. The climb to the dome has a separate ticket, with an option of an elevator up to the terrace.
What should I wear in the Basílica de São Pedro?
Shoulders and knees must be covered. Shorts above the knee, miniskirts, sleeveless or low-cut clothing are not accepted. A scarf or light jacket solves this in summer.
How many steps are there to climb to the dome of São Pedro?
If you climb all the way on foot there are just over 550 steps. With the elevator to the terrace, about 320 remain, in the narrowest section. It is not recommended for those with mobility difficulties.
Can you go from the Museus Vaticanos directly to the basilica?
The museums and the basilica have separate entrances. The Museus Vaticanos themselves recommend not leaving luggage in their cloakroom if the visit will continue to the basilica. Check at the time whether the internal passage is open.