Tour of St. Peter's Basilica, Holy Door, and Papal Tombs
Overview
Fascinating stories behind each masterpiece: discover why Michelangelo signed The Pieta (his only signed work), the secrets of Bernini's imposing Baldachin, and the symbolism hidden in the majestic St. Peter's Cathedra.
- The ancient basilica, built by Emperor Constantine
- The present basilica, built under the papacy of Julius II
- St. Peter's Square, designed by Bernini
- The columns and their significance
- The central obelisk
- The twin fountains
- The façade
- The statues on the façade
- The entrance doors of the basilica and the meaning of the Holy Door
- The dome
- The tomb of St. Peter
- The tombs of numerous popes, including that of John Paul II
- The statue of St. Peter
And much more.
This activity includes:
- St. Peter Square Obelisk
- Tomb of Saint Peter
- Saint Peter's Square
- Basilica de San Pedro, Vaticano
- St. Peter's Basilica
- Radio transmisor
- Audifonos para una mejor audición
Our Guides
Meeting point
Piazza della Città Leonina (Està la Pizzeria Leonina, al frente esta un chioco verde. Delante de estos 2 puntos es nuestro punto de encuentro)
On arrival
Piazza della Città Leonina (In front of the only kiosk in the square/next to the Porta Angelica Arches), look for the flagpole with 3 colored pompoms (fuchsia and green).
The best way to get there is by metro A:
- Get off at the stop OTTAVIANO
- Walk along via Ottaviano towards Piazza Risorgimento
- Cross Piazza Risorgimento, always in the same direction (right)
- Once you have crossed the square, start along Via di Porta Angelica and 200 meters on the left hand side you will find Piazza della Città Leonina (you will find yourself in front of the only kiosk in the square/next to the Arches of Porta Angelica). Look for the flagpole with the 3 colored pompoms.
Things to note
Recommendations:
- Arrive 15 min. early
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes (no flip-flops)
- Clothing should cover shoulders, back and knees, this is the same for both men and women because it is a religious place
- If you bring water, make sure it is in a small plastic bottle
- St. Peter's Basilica may be closed for events; we will reschedule your visit if this occurs.
- Airport type controls are required with waiting times from 15 min to 2 h especially during rush hours.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Entrance tickets to the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums
- Climbing the dome, alternatively at the end of the tour, the guide will tell you where to buy tickets to go up to the dome (15 € by elevator).
Free Cancellation
Free Cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts. Late cancellation or your non-arrival is not refundable.
