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St. Peter's Square
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Landmark
St. Peter's Square is the monumental forecourt of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, representing one of the world's most iconic urban ensembles. Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini between 1656 and 1667 under Pope Alexander VII, it was conceived to accommodate the largest possible crowds for papal blessings. The square's elliptical shape is embraced by two massive semicircular colonnades, which Bernini intended to symbolize the 'motherly arms of the Church.' Each colonnade consists of four rows of Doric columns and is topped by 140 statues of saints. At the center of the square stands an ancient Egyptian obelisk, brought to Rome by Caligula in 37 AD. Today, the square serves as the primary venue for general audiences, canonizations, and the 'Urbi et Orbi' address. Its architectural layout creates a profound visual connection to the basilica's facade and incorporates two symmetrical fountains by Maderno and Bernini.
- Location: Vatican
- Top sights: Saint Peter's Square · Vatican Obelisk · Il Cuore di Nerone
- Population: ~829 (2026)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 8 | 10 | 14 | 18 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 21 | 17 | 12 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 73 | 77 | 69 | 56 | 57 | 34 | 26 | 26 | 70 | 82 | 114 | 92 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
St. Peter's Square is a public space, freely accessible at any time. It can be visited both during the day and in the evening - when lit up, it looks especially impressive.
Typical hours
The square has no fixed opening hours as it is accessible around the clock. However, entrances may be partly restricted at night by barriers, especially during events.
Photography
Photography is of course allowed and very popular - the colonnades and obelisk are the main subjects. For the best shot with the basilica in the background, stand in the center of the square.
Time needed
Allow 30 minutes to an hour to explore the square at leisure and take photos. If visiting the basilica and dome as well, plan for at least three hours.
Combine with
St. Peter's Square is inseparable from St. Peter's Basilica and the dome - you should definitely combine these three attractions. The Vatican Museums are right behind the colonnade.
Getting there
The square is easily reached on foot from Ottaviano metro station (line A) in 10 minutes. Alternatively, buses 64, 62, and 40 stop at Piazza del Risorgimento, adjacent to the square.
Insider tip
Arrive early around 7:00 AM when the square is nearly empty and the morning sun gilds the colonnades. Check out the two fountains - one by Bernini, the other by Maderno.
Geography
Facts
- The square measures 320 meters long by 240 meters wide.
- The colonnades comprise a total of 284 columns and 88 pillars.
- The central obelisk stands 25.5 meters tall and weighs 330 tons.
- Two markers on the ground allow the four rows of columns to appear as one.
- The 140 statues of saints atop the colonnades are each 3.1 meters high.
- The obelisk was moved to its present site in 1586 by Domenico Fontana.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town St. Peter's Square (10)
Maderno Fountain
St. Pellegrino Gate
Saints Martin and Sebastian of the Swiss
Chiesa dei Santi Michele e Magno
San Lorenzo in Piscibus
Arch of the Bells
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How many people can fit in St. Peter's Square?
The square can accommodate about 300,000 people during major papal celebrations.
Who designed St. Peter's Square?
The architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini designed the square between 1656 and 1667.
What does the obelisk in the center represent?
It is an Egyptian obelisk moved here in 1586; it also functions as a sundial.
When does the Pope speak in the square?
Usually on Wednesdays for the general audience and Sundays for the Angelus prayer.
Where are the fountains in St. Peter's Square?
There are two identical fountains north and south of the obelisk (Maderno and Bernini).
St. Peter's Square: where is it located?
St. Peter's Square is located in Vatican.
St. Peter's Square: what is there to see?
Highlights include Saint Peter's Square, Vatican Obelisk, Il Cuore di Nerone.
St. Peter's Square: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
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History & landmarks
Gendarmerie Barracks
The living quarters and operational center of the Gendarmerie Corps of Vatican City, responsible for public order.
Vatican Fire Station
The headquarters of the Vatican Fire Brigade, responsible for fire protection and safety services throughout the entire enclave.
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.
Saint Anne's Gate
One of the primary entrances to Vatican City, used mainly by employees and residents for daily access to the state.
Typography Street
The central street of the Vatican's publishing district, home to the printing presses and editorial offices of official media.
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.
More places
Palace of St. Pius X
A modern administrative building on Via della Conciliazione.
Bronze Door
The primary ceremonial entrance to the Apostolic Palace, constantly guarded by the Pontifical Swiss Guard.
Palace of the Holy Office
Seat of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, located right on the Vatican border.
Palace of Sixtus V
This wing of the Apostolic Palace traditionally serves as the official residence of the Popes.
Domus Sanctae Marthae
A guesthouse for clergy and the current residence of Pope Francis.
San Damaso Courtyard
The primary courtyard of the Apostolic Palace, where the Holy See's protocol receives visiting heads of state and diplomatic missions.
Palace of Gregory XIII
This part of the Apostolic Palace surrounds the San Damaso Courtyard.
Palace of Paul V
This palace wing extends the Apostolic complex to the north.