St Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)The Basilica lies above the reputed site of St. Peter's tomb. It
is an overwhelming interior, containing notable sculptures
including Michelangelo's
, which is protected by bullet-proof glass since the
damaging attack on it in 1972. In the central aisle stands Arnolfo
da Cambio's bronze statue of St Peter, its foot worn down by the
constant flow of pilgrims' kisses. Proudly resting above the papal
altar is Bernini's
. The Vatican Grottoes, containing papal
tombs, can be reached by steps from the statue of St Longinus. The
Necropolis is located one level below the grottoes. This is the
legendary site of St Peter's tomb and advance permission has to be
obtained to view it. A strict dress code is in place for the
Basilica and no shorts, bare shoulders or miniskirts are allowed
(for men and women).
Address: Piazza San Pietro
Website: www.stpetersbasilica.org
Transportation: Metro line A (the red line)to Ottaviano stop, or bus to
Piazza del Risorgimento
Opening Time: Open daily from 7am to 7pm (April to September), and
7am to 6pm (October to March)
Admission: Entry to the Basilica is Free. Entry to the Dome is EUR4
(EUR5 with lift); and entry to the Necropolis is EUR10 |
