St Peter's Basilica

St Peter's Basilica

As part of the visit to Rome, we went to Vatican City including St. Peter's Basilica. It's an amazing place, with incredible statues, stunning architecture. Totally impressive. We went up to the dome and climbed the 200 steps. Then we went to the next level, all the way up via 330 more stairs to the top. There’s a great view of the Vatican and Rome from the top. Both are a must see.

The Alter with Bernini's Baldacchino

The inside is stunning and you get the feeling of grandeur mixed with the fact that along with the fact that the Roman Catholic Church is a rich institution.

Basilica Interior

We took the option to go to the dome of the basilica and this is something I would recommend to everyone as long as you can handle lots of stairs. But if you can’t climb the stairs take the lift for 7 euros  each. The stairs themselves cost 5 euros. It’s worth it though, again, the views are truly spectacular.

Laocoön and his sons from the Pope's Art Collection

Well what else can be said about this incredible church? You absolutely have to visit if you're in Rome. Very simple to get to via the Metro. You can either wait in line, or take a chance with one of the many tourist companies that will haggle with you. No words can adequately describe how amazing it is to be in the midst of such amazing artwork and history. Just visit and you will see.

The St. Peter's Basilica represents power and splendor of Rome's 2,000 year dominance of the Western World. Over 2,000 years ago, St. Peter's oval shaped square was the site of Nero's Circus which was in essence a Roman chariot race course. During halftime, they killed Christians. They were to fight wild animals, gladiators, were crucified and burned or tortured in other ways. 

The Pope's Apartment

One of those who are said to have been killed here in about 65 CE was Peter, who was Jesus's disciple. His remains are thought to be buried where the main altar is today. He has been recognized as the first pope. When Christianity became legal in 313 CE, Constantine built a church on the site of Peter's historic tomb site.

The whole experience is totally worth it.

Highly recommended!

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