St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica, located in Vatican City within Rome, is known as the largest Christian church ever built. The massive size and magnificent architecture make the Basilica a common venue for papal ceremonies; however, St. Peter’s Basilica is not the church of the Pope nor does it have the highest ranking among Roman Basilicas. However, in the Catholic faith it is regarded as one of the holiest places and is a common pilgrimage destination because of its unique history.
According to tradition, St. Peter’s Basilica is built on the burial site of the apostle Saint Peter. Saint Peter was the first Bishop of Rome, or the first pope of the Roman Catholic Church. To honour St. Peter, a church was placed on the burial site during the fourth century. Until the 15th century, Old St. Peter’s Basilica remained a marker of the tomb, but by that time it was in need of great repair. The pope had the old structure removed with plans to create a more grandiose church, St. Peter’s Basilica.
Construction of the building began in 1506 and did not end until 1626. Much of the design of St. Peter’s Basilica is attributed to the great Michelangelo, who planned much of the final structure, but in fact the construction time stretched the lives of several architects and popes who oversaw the creation and tweaked the plans.
St. Peter’s Basilica, as it stands today, is known as ‘the greatest building of its age’. The edifice is cruciform with chapels encircling the central dome. Both the interior and exterior of St. Peter’s Basilica are absolutely breathtaking. Among many highlights within the church is a chair that was supposedly used by Saint Peter himself.
Over 100 people have been buried in St. Peter’s Basilica, including 91 popes and Holy Roman Emperor Otto II. The building’s dome is the tallest in the world, rising to a height of 136 metres, or 448 feet. Inscribed within is the verse “…you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church…I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven” from Matthew 16. The scale of the church and St. Peter’s Square, which surrounds St. Peter’s Basilica, are overwhelming.
Visit St. Peter’s Basilica while enjoying a self-catering apartment in Rome. This magnificent religious site is a must-see for travellers of all faiths.
More Like This...
Sistine Chapel
