St Peter's Basilica (Rome)

The Papal Basilica of Saint Peter, as it is officially known, has the largest interior of any Christian church in the world and is a place of pilgrimage for Catholics around the world. In addition to its religious importance, it is a captivating and inspiring place to visit and a must see for all lovers of art, history and architecture. Its central dome dominates Rome's skyline and inside, you will encounter lavish decorative features with Michelangelo marble sculptures, paintings and gilded frescoes. It is a truly impressive structure and despite the never ending throng of tourists it is worthy of a few hours during cheap city breaks in Rome.

 

Save some time to contemplate the Rome skyline from the top of the 450 feet high Basilica dome which is reached via an ornately decorated spiral staircase. Every bit of interior space inside the basilica is used to display the cream of renaissance art from such luminaries as Bernini, Michelangelo and Raphael. There is a lot to linger over and admire and on weekend breaks in Rome, you should plan to get here before the midday rush for a more rewarding and dignified experience. The Vatican Grottoes are located deep within the bowels of St Peter's Basilica and are an interesting side excursion where you will see the final resting place of a succession of former popes including St Peter and even members of the Scottish Stuart royal family.

 

There are a number of ways to explore the grounds and the interior of the basilica. You can stroll around at leisure and there are also engaging and informative English audio tours. For visitors with a whole day to spare at the Vatican, free tours of St Peter's Basilica are available in conjunction with a paying tour of the Vatican Museums. Take time out here during short breaks in Rome to soak up the graceful architecture and traditions associated with the vast St Peter's Square. It is flanked by a monumental colonnade topped by over 100 statues of saints and at the centre of the piazza are two spectacular fountains and a towering Egyptian obelisk.