Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica

A guided tour to discover the wonders of St Peter’s Basilica

Prepare to traverse the breathtaking realms of St. Peter’s Basilica, an architectural masterpiece teeming with religious, historical, and artistic treasures. The guided tour whisks you on a compelling journey through the majestic corridors of this iconic Vatican monument. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Basilica’s fascinating history and marvel at its architectural marvels.
Stand beneath the magnificent dome designed by Michelangelo, explore the stunning chapels, and examine the awe-inspiring mosaics and sculptures that adorn this holy edifice.

What’s included

• Expert-guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica
• Assistance at the meeting point

Embark on a captivating journey through time with an expert guide leading the way. This ticket grants you a fully-guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, opening doors to the monument’s intriguing history and enchanting spaces.

Your visit takes you through the fascinating chapels, each bearing its unique significance and story, and the architectural highlights that underscore the brilliance of its designers. A compelling narrative accompanies your exploration, with the guide shedding light on the Basilica’s construction, the inspiration behind its art, and the important events that have transpired within its walls.

What’s not included

• Access to the Papal Grottoes
• Access to the Dome
• Skip-the-line entrance

St. Peter’s Basilica: a testament to time and faith

The central attraction of your tour is the St. Peter’s Basilica, located within the sovereign enclave of the Vatican City. It stands as one of the world’s largest and most revered churches, boasting a history that stretches back nearly two millennia.

The Basilica’s historic roots

St. Peter’s Basilica, whose origins can be traced back to the 4th century, is a testament to the Catholic faith and the artistic prowess of the Renaissance era. The current edifice, constructed during the 16th and 17th centuries, replaced the Old St. Peter’s Basilica and was largely influenced by the creative genius of artists like Michelangelo and Bernini.

Architectural splendour

The Basilica’s architecture is a fusion of Renaissance and Baroque styles, embodying an aesthetic brilliance that leaves visitors awe-struck. The iconic dome, the tallest in the world, is Michelangelo’s masterpiece. From the towering columns of the colonnade to the intricate designs of the facade, the Basilica is a celebration of architectural genius.

Artistic showcase

St. Peter’s Basilica serves as a grand showcase for artistic masterpieces. Each corner of the edifice brims with remarkable sculptures, stunning mosaics, and awe-inspiring paintings, created by celebrated artists. The world-renowned ‘Pieta’ by Michelangelo and Bernini’s Baldachin are among the many treasures waiting to be discovered.

The Papal altar and St. Peter’s baldachin

The Papal Altar, where only the Pope celebrates Mass, is a prominent feature of the Basilica. Over it looms the impressive St. Peter’s Baldachin, a large Baroque sculpted bronze canopy, intricately designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. This dramatic piece of art serves as a visual focus within the Basilica and symbolises a direct connection to the divine.

Instructions

• Meet your guide at the desk located under the portico of St. Peter’s Basilica Square
• Show your reservation to the Basilica staff
• Please arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled tour time to avoid delays
• Security controls to access the Basilica may be long (30/40 minutes), better to arrive early

Please note that the ticket is non-cancellable and non-reschedulable. It is advisable to plan your visit carefully and ensure your timely presence at the designated meeting point.