Map of Italy

St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, Rome
UNESCO World heritage Site

In Catholic tradition, the basilica is the burial site of its namesake Saint Peter, who was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and, according to tradition, first Bishop of Rome and therefore first in the line of the papal succession. It is regarded as one of the holiest Catholic sites. As a work of architecture, it is regarded as the greatest building of its age. Pope Benedict XVI is the present Pope.

The Basilica was completed in 1626 with a length of 220 m, 150 m width, height of 136.57 m and a Dome diameter (outer) of 42 m, one of the largest domes in the world. It covers an area of 5.7 acres.

The entire interior is lavishly decorated with marble, reliefs, architectural sculpture and gilding. The basilica contains a large number of tombs of popes and other notable people, many of which are considered outstanding artworks.

Big Bell (Campanone) is founded by Luigi Valadier in 1795. It weighs 8950 kg and having a diameter of 2.316 m. The note of this bell is E0+3. The Basilica has 6 bells.





Michelangelo's Pieta



Videos 1 >> 2 >> 3 >> 4

Beatification Ceremony of John Paul II video

Rome city tours, Italy Video