St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the holiest temples for Christendom and one of the largest churches in the world. Besides, it's where the Pope presides many liturgies all year round.

The construction of the new basilica began in 1506 when the old basilica had been torn down and was finished in 1626. It was consecrated on 18 November 1626. Several renowned architects designed the temple, highlighting the works of Bramante, Michelangelo, and Carlo Maderno.

The basilica was called St Peter’s after one of Jesus’s twelve disciples known as Saint Peter, who became one of the founders of the Catholic Church and was executed in Rome and buried where the Basilica now stands.

If you want to visit the Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, with a local guide and skip lines that can sometimes last 4 hours - we recommend reserving a guided tour of the Vatican. You'll see all the essential sights, and save time which you can use to enjoy the city.

OPENING HOURS:

October – March: 7am - 6:30pm April – September: 7am – 7pm The dome opens at 8am and closes one hour before the Basilica.

ENTRANCE & TICKETS:

The entrance to the Basilica is free. Climbing to the top of the Dome: Lift to the terrace plus 320 steps: € 8 Climbing 551 steps by foot: € 6