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Square · Roma, Lazio
Piazza San Pietro
The square in front of the Basílica de São Pedro, embraced by Bernini's colonnade, with the Egyptian obelisk in the center. It is the gateway to the Cidade do Vaticano.
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 Piazza San Pietro
Piazza San Pietro was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini between 1656 and 1667. The two semicircular colonnades, with four rows of columns, were conceived as arms welcoming the faithful. At the top, a row of statues of saints follows the entire curve.
In the center stands an Egyptian obelisk brought to Rome by Emperor Calígula and placed there in 1586. On either side, two fountains complete the layout. Between the obelisk and each fountain there is a stone on the ground marking the point from which the four rows of columns appear as one.
The square belongs to the Cidade do Vaticano, but there is no passport control: the white line on the ground, at the exit toward the Via della Conciliazione, marks the border with Italy. On Sundays at noon, when he is in Rome, the pope usually prays the Angelus from the window of the Palácio Apostólico, and on Wednesdays the general audience usually takes place.
To enter the basilica, the security queue forms under the colonnade. The square itself is open and entry is free.
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
About 20 to 30 minutes in the square. If you plan to enter the basilica, add the security-line time.
Best time
Early in the morning the square tends to be quieter. At night, with the basilica illuminated, it's a different scene. On days of celebrations and audiences, access may be controlled.
How to get there
Metrô linha A, stations Ottaviano or Cipro, and a 10–15 minute walk. From Castel Sant'Angelo it's about a 10-minute walk along the Via della Conciliazione.
Tip
Look for the stone discs on the ground between the obelisk and the fountains: from there the columns line up. The Vatican post office has a counter in the square to send postcards with a Vatican stamp.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Piazza San Pietro
Is Piazza San Pietro already Vatican territory?
Yes. The square is part of the Cidade do Vaticano, but entry is free and there is no passport control. The border with Italy is marked by a strip on the ground.
How to see the pope in Rome?
When the pope is in Rome, he usually prays the Angelus on Sundays at midday from the window of the Palácio Apostólico and holds the general audience on Wednesdays. Check the schedule before going.
Do you need a ticket for Piazza San Pietro?
No. The square is open and there is no charge. Security screening is only required to enter the basilica.