St peter basilica vatican

St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City is the largest Catholic church in the world and a Renaissance masterpiece.

About this subject

St. Peter's Basilica is the spiritual heart of Catholicism, located within Vatican City. Construction began in 1506 on the site of the earlier Constantinian basilica, believed to be the burial place of Saint Peter. Architects such as Donato Bramante, Raphael, and Michelangelo contributed to its design; Michelangelo designed the magnificent dome, completed after his death. The façade by Carlo Maderno and the colonnaded square by Gian Lorenzo Bernini complete this monumental complex.

The interior astounds with its scale: 218 meters in length and 136 meters high at the dome. It houses masterpieces like Michelangelo's Pietà, Bernini's bronze baldachin over the main altar, and the Chair of Saint Peter. The dome, inspired by Rome's Pantheon, is an engineering marvel of the Renaissance and offers panoramic views of the city.

The basilica is the setting for major papal ceremonies, including Masses and canonizations. During Jubilee Years, millions of pilgrims pass through the Holy Door. A curious detail: the crossed keys in the Vatican coat of arms symbolize the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven entrusted to Peter, the basilica's patron.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is the dome of St. Peter's Basilica?

The dome reaches 136 meters from the floor to the top of the lantern. It is one of the largest domes in the world.

Who designed St. Peter's Basilica?

Many architects contributed: Bramante started, Raphael and Sangallo worked on it, Michelangelo designed the dome, and Bernini finished the square and baldachin.

What is Michelangelo's Pietà and where is it?

The Pietà is a marble sculpture by Michelangelo depicting Mary holding the dead Jesus. It is located in the first chapel on the right of the nave.