St. Peter's Basilica in Rome

Mamma mia, how beautiful you are, Rome! In the heart of Italy, love, romance, and dedication were invented. But not here - because today we continue buttoned up toward St. Peter's Basilica. Please follow...

Anyone who has seen Rome with their own eyes, danced through its streets, tried the best pizza, lost themselves in the dark eyes of the Romans, and has been pickpocketed at one corner or another knows that time ticks differently in Rome. A lively city that loves and celebrates itself, its country, and life. However, as you reach the Vatican's border, they celebrate completely different things. So cover your shoulders, fold your hands, and into St. Peter's Basilica you go - probably the most beautiful basilica in the world.

If you really want to know everything about the origin and background of the holiest building in the world, you must take a deep breath and probably spend hours with your nose in books. I want to spare you that and instead provide you with a few key points so you can impress the lovely lady you've been following all day with your umbrella and scarf with a few facts.

In 1506, the first cornerstone of this important building was laid, which is visited daily by 20,000 tourists, pilgrims, believers, or just curious people. The city's landmark, of course, aside from the Colosseum, is considered THE main attraction. Once the old Constantine Basilica, St. Peter's Basilica was built anew over the grave of Saint Peter. Many individuals were involved in its development and construction until 1547, when the famous painter and architect Michelangelo took pen to paper and assumed construction management. In this capacity, he also designed the great dome, for which we now twist our necks inside to admire.

An incredible 120 years were spent building this structure, which looks quite uniform despite having gone through three stylistic epochs (Renaissance, Mannerism, and Baroque). Great praise to all the architects who came and went, creating such a monumental structure. In the center of St. Peter's Square, which lies directly in front of the basilica, is an obelisk. At its base, there's something incredible. It's said that in this imposing obelisk lies the ashes of Julius Caesar and a part of the cross on which Jesus Christ died.

Additionally, you are watched by 140 statues of saints at St. Peter's Square. And there is another architectural masterpiece you can discover: Stand on the round circles on the ground marked 'Centro del Colonnato.' If you look at the many columns from there, you'll see them all perfectly aligned from that perspective - so instead of seeing four columns in a row, it looks like just one. An impressive optical illusion, huh?

With its 15,160 m², St. Peter's Basilica is one of the largest spaces in the world and can accommodate 20,000 people who can gather within its walls. The dome, which you can also climb and should definitely do, has a magnificent diameter of 42 meters and stands 43 meters tall. Inside, the inscription quotes the church's patron saint: Tu es Petrus et super hanc petram aedificabo ecclesiam meam et tibi dabo claves regni caelorum. For those whose Latin may be rusty: You are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven.

So, enough facts and stories - after all, you want to be impressed by this gigantic church with your own eyes. Entrance doesn't cost you anything, but you pay with your life's time as you wait in the seemingly endless line at security. So don't forget your head covering in summer (but please remove it once inside the church). Patience is key here. But I promise you, you will be rewarded for your patience. So you absolutely cannot miss a visit to St. Peter's Basilica!

Once your bags have been searched, your body scanned, and your clothing deemed appropriate, you may finally enter the holy walls. I would take the clothing seriously, especially if you are in Rome during a city trip wearing a dress or shorts in the summer. This is because you won't get close to the beautiful dome.

My tip:

Make sure to climb or take the elevator to the dome of the basilica for a breathtaking view over the Italian capital, St. Peter's Square, and the Vatican.

Inside the basilica, you can move freely and let the art and history wash over you - you will be astonished while twisting your neck to see the many details of the church. What you absolutely must do is climb or take the elevator to the dome of the basilica. Either you put in the work on 551 steps (6€) or you cheat a little and take the elevator (8€), so only 320 steps remain to the observation deck. You really should not miss the incredible view over the Italian capital, St. Peter's Square, and the Vatican.

Anyone wishing to extend their visit to the Vatican should definitely also visit the Sistine Chapel with the famous painting of the 'Creation of Adam' and the Vatican Museum.

When the host himself, namely the Pope, comes to the balcony, it becomes even more crowded at this already well-visited location. Then you should be careful where you walk, keep your personal belongings in sight, and above all, don't suffer from claustrophobia. A light (but of course not too revealing) outfit is especially recommended on hot sunny days.

Once there, people react differently to the situation of seeing the Holy Father live and in color. Some people cry, some photograph feverishly, and others just stare at him and pause for a moment. Yes, such a papal audience in the Vatican is indeed something special. Especially for the believers who travel from all over the world to experience the Pope with their own eyes. If, however, you belong to the type that doesn't count themselves among the very religious folks, I would suggest you quietly slip away and observe the hustle and bustle from a distance while enjoying some ice cream.

St. Peter's Basilica in the city of the seven hills is a must-see and if you prepare for hot temperatures and many people in the summer, the visit will surely be great and unforgettable. Or you prefer to schedule your city tour in the spring or autumn and avoid the heat. Have fun in Rome, one of the most beautiful and impressive cities in Italy!

Post image: Viacheslav Lopatin / Shutterstock.com