St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City is the preeminent shrine of the Roman Catholic Church and a pinnacle of Renaissance architecture. Built over the burial site of St. Peter the Apostle, the construction of the current basilica commenced in 1506 and reached completion in 1626. Renowned architects including Donato Bramante, Michelangelo Buonarroti, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini were instrumental in its design. Michelangelo conceived the monumental dome, while Bernini created the ornate bronze baldachin over the high altar. Spanning an interior area of roughly 15,000 square meters and capable of holding tens of thousands of worshippers, it ranks among the largest churches in the world. The basilica houses countless artistic treasures, notably Michelangelo's Pietà and the papal tombs within the Vatican Grottoes. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists annually and serves as the primary venue for the Pope's most significant liturgical ceremonies.

History & landmarks

Bunker Access

A secured access point to underground structures within the Vatican walls.

Fountain of the Galley

A decorative fountain in the Vatican Gardens evocative of maritime themes.

Vatican City Railway Station

The only railway station in the world's smallest state.

St. Peter's Square

A monumental square in front of St.

Vatican Fire Station

The headquarters of the Vatican Fire Brigade, responsible for fire protection and safety services throughout the entire enclave.

Typography Street

The central street of the Vatican's publishing district, home to the printing presses and editorial offices of official media.

Postal Service Square

A busy square near the Vatican Post Office headquarters, serving as a vital hub for postal and parcel traffic.

Oven Square

A small square in the heart of the Vatican's service district, named after the historical bakery that served the city.

More places

St. Peter's Dome

The most distinctive feature of Rome's skyline, designed by Michelangelo.

Storage Annex

A functional building used for the storage of operational materials.

Canons' Palace

This monumental residential complex houses the canons of St.

Palace of the Sacristy

This massive building houses the sacristy of St.

Archpriest's Palace

This building serves as the official residence of the Cardinal Archpriest of the Vatican Basilica.

Domus Sanctae Marthae

A guesthouse for clergy and the current residence of Pope Francis.

San Carlo Palace

A significant residential building within the Vatican, serving as a residence for clerics and officials of the Roman Curia.

Church of Santa Maria della Pietà

The national church for the German-speaking population in the Vatican, located directly adjacent to the Campo Santo Teutonico.