St Peter's Basilica

The basilica stands over the traditional burial place of the apostle Peter and is the largest church in Rome. Inside you pass Michelangelo's Pietà in the first chapel on the right, then walk toward Bernini's bronze canopy over the papal altar, under Michelangelo's dome. The security check at the edge of the square comes first, and the queue is the part that varies.

What to look for

• Michelangelo's Pietà in the first chapel on the right
• Bernini's bronze canopy over the high altar
• The dome and the lettering around its base
• The statue of Saint Peter with the worn foot

Opening hours

Hours can change for religious celebrations and papal events. The dome has shorter hours in winter and is ticketed separately.

Source: Basilica di San Pietro, checked October 4, 2026

Tickets and booking

Free. Entry is free. The dome and other special visits are ticketed separately.

Entry is free, but the security queue in the square can be long. A paid reserved slot on the official site shortens the wait.

Getting there

Ottaviano station on Metro Line A is about a ten minute walk from the square.

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Tip

Go early in the morning. Check ahead for general audience mornings, when access can be limited.