Basilica di San Pietro

Basilica di San Pietro, located in the Vatican City of Rome, is one of the oldest and largest churches in the world. It was originally built in 324 by Emperor Constantine I, and was left virtually untouched until the 16th century. In 1506, Pope Julius II had the basilica reconstructed by the famous Italian artist, Donato Bramante. The interior of the church is adorned with masterpieces by renowned Italian painters and sculptors including Michelangelo, Maderno, Bernini and Carlo Maderno. The spectacular central dome, measuring 136 metres in height and 42 metres in width, can be seen from almost any point in the city. Visitors to the basilica can admire its many chapels and altars, as well as Michelangelo’s iconic sculpture of La Pietà. There is also a treasury containing many ancient relics and a Library of Sistine Hall where Pope Pius IX held many meetings during his papacy. Basilica di San Pietro is open to the public and entrance is free.