St. Peter’s Basilica: A Cathedral of Art

8 July 202522 June 2025

A group of school children, dressed in navy uniforms, skipped ahead of us along the walkway which connects the Vatican Museum to St. Peter’s Basilica. Still in awe at the beauty of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, I made my way towards the cathedral known for its architecture and artwork of famous Renaissance artists. While waiting at the entrance, I thought about how I had waited so many years to visit Rome and wondered if these youngsters had any idea how lucky they were for the opportunity to visit St. Peter’s Basilica at such a young age.

The Vatican City resides in the city of Rome, its own country with a post office, helipad and even its own currency with a portrait of the pope. It is the capital of over 1 billion Roman Catholics with the pope its ruler.

Shuttled along with fellow tourists towards the entrance, I noticed The Holy Door of St. Peter’s Cathedral to my far right. Traditionally, the door is only open every twenty five years during the Holy Year, and on special occasions as designated by the pope. Dating back to 1450, the bronze from the original Old Peter’s church was melted down to create the sixteen scenes which feature Jesus, Paul and Peter and shows how each was martyred (the bottom panels).

Once inside the cathedral, I noticed the ornate stucco ceiling of the portico with the coat of arms of Pope Paul V. The basilica was completed during the Pope’s reign in the 1600s. Columns, arched walkways and small windows allowed the day’s light to gracefully creep in. The beautiful rays of sunlight produced a majestic golden hue that reflected off of the marble interior creating a stunning effect.

While Michelangelo is credited for the cathedral’s architecture, Bernini was its interior designer. He created the bronze canopy, the apse, the balconies, various statues (including the statue of St. Longinus) and the marble flooring.

Approaching the Nave, my eyes followed the coppered ceiling, watching the stream of light subtly appear through the windows. Detailed hallways and arches at each side are displayed with magnificent carvings. The Nave was coming into view and the dome appeared above the altar canopy. At the base of the dome are four medallions representing the saints who wrote the Four Gospels of the Bible.

Beneath the dome is the Main Altar, where only the pope recites Mass. When he is in the Vatican City, it is here where he conducts the Sunday morning mass.

The center of the Basilica is known as the Crossing and it is where the Papal Altar sits over the location of St. Peter’s tomb. Located above the tomb is the famous Dome of Michelangelo. Around the opening at the top is an inscription “To the Glory of St. Peter, Sixtus V, 1590, the fifth year of his reign.”

Looking past the elaborate altar canopy called the Baldacchino, my eyes are immediately drawn to the altar where there are two cherubs. These cherubs, holding the papal tiara and St. Peter’s keys, symbolize the authority of the Roman pontiff and seem to capture the glory of the sun.

Designed by Bernini the canopy covers the Papal Altar as well as the Tomb of St. Peter. The bronze structure was created using materials from Rome’s Pantheon and was completed in 1633. In the background, past the Baldacchino, is the Altar of the Chair, which contains the relics of a chair from which St. Peter preached. Located above the papal tiara is the symbol of the Holy Spirit, an alabaster dove that seems to illuminate as the outer light shines through.

The Confessio Petri, or Tomb of St. Peter can be accessed through the banister in front of the altar and taking the stairs below. I took an excursion to see the place where St. Peter was buried and waited for our tour guide to arrive. Once we descended 23 feet below the marble floor, we reached the entrance at the bottom, where we were instructed that this was a high security area and no photos were permitted.

Of course, the most important question on everyone’s mind was, “Are these really the bones of St. Peter?” Our guide explained that the tomb of Peter had been sealed since Old St. Peter’s Church was built in 326AD. In 1940, the tomb was opened and an inscription was found on a nearby wall claiming that “Peter is here.” Archaeologists removed the bones that were wrapped in cloth and tested them to determine their age. They confirmed that they were indeed the bones dating back to the first century and are believed to be those of St. Peter, the first bishop of the Catholic church.

On the day of a pope’s funeral, thousands gather in St. Peter’s Cathedral to pay their respects, and later his coffin is carried out to the square where the eulogy is conducted. While there are several popes that have been laid to rest below the basilica, there are several shrines throughout the cathedral where the bodies of previous popes can be viewed.

The beauty of St. Peter’s continued throughout the basilica as I discovered additional treasures from some of the greatest artists of all time. While the white columns on the portico date back to the fourth century when the first church was built, many of the stones used to construct the cathedral were removed from the court houses of ancient Rome. Cupolas, statues of popes, marble floors and popes interred add to the mystery of the basilica’s possessions.

Nothing compares to the crown jewel of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Dome of Michelangelo. The largest dome in the world reaches 448 feet from the floor to the top. Sixteen slender curved panels display painted images of angels and saints while Jesus and Mary can be seen above the circular set of windows.

The Latin inscription at the base of the dome comes from the Biblical passage in Matthew 16:18 which says, “You are Peter and upon this rock I will build my church, and to you I will give the keys of the kingdom of heaven”.

The apse is located beneath the dome where a golden dove represents the Holy Spirit, glowing as the sun shines through the glass. The Throne of Peter, located below the glow of the dove, made of oak was bronzed by Bernini as a symbol of St. Peter’s authority.

Not only was St. Peter buried within the walls of St. Peter’s Cathedral, this is also the site of his crucifixion. To the left of the apse, across from the main altar is a painting which, according to tradition) represents St. Peters’ crucifixion. While Peter was preaching in Rome, he gained the attention of the current reigning emperor Nero, who hated Christians. Nero imprisoned Peter and made a spectacle of his death. It is said that Peter refused to be crucified in the manner of Christ and insisted that he should be nailed to the cross upside down.

Raphael’s famous painting of The Transfiguration is around the corner telling the story of Jesus’ ascension into heaven after having been crucified, buried and then rising from the dead. The Renaissance artist’s oil is located above one of the altars on the other side of the statue of St. Andrew. The magnificent layers of blue in the sky welcome Jesus as he rises from the Earth to his eternal home in heaven and it is exactly how I had imagined it.

There is a crowd surrounding the Pieta as I arrived and I decided to visit the tomb of Pope John Paul II who is close by. My grandparents were Catholic, so I remembered how much they respected him and were proud that he was Polish. I also remember when he survived an assassination attempt in 1981 and the extensive media coverage during his death in 2005. And since I happened to be visiting the weekend of his canonization, it only seemed appropriate that I pay my respects.

St. John Paul II was laid to rest below the painting of St. Sebastian who was able to escape the assassination attempts on his life by the Romans. It is said that Sebastian was John Paul’s favorite saint.

I finally reach Michelangelo’s Pieta (pity), housed behind bulletproof glass, and gazing upon its rich detail, it is clear to see the sculptor’s influence on the artistic community of the Renaissance Era. This statue of Mary shows her holding Jesus after he was taken from the cross. Considered the most famous of all of Michelangelo’s works, he completed it at the age of 24. The soft edges, deep folds and expression on Mary’s face graciously exemplify the perfection in his work.

St. Peter’s Cathedral showcases the beautiful artistic treasures of Renaissance art. It displays the wealth and importance of the Catholic Church with its billions of followers. From the first Pope, St. Peter to St. Francis today, Catholicism remains a key spiritual denomination to many believers in Jesus Christ over many years.

Have you experienced the beauty of St. Peter’s Cathedral? What did you admire the most? I would love to hear about your visit and would be happy if you would include any additional information or suggestions regarding a visit to St. Peter’s in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my tour of St. Peter’s Cathedral and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Purchase a Ticket for the Hop On/Hop Off Bus

St. Peter’s Basilica
Piazza San Pietro
00120 Citta del Vaticano, Vatican City, Italy
Telephone: +39 06 6988 3731

Admission Fee: Free admission with an additional charge to visit the dome. Dome fees: elevator to the terrace level and climb up the 320 steps for 10 Euros or climb up the 551 steps for 8 Euros.
Buses/Trains Info: Buses 40, 44, 84, 780 and 810; Metro station: Colosseo: Line B
Hours: Daily from 8:00AM to 5:00PM from October 1 to March 31 and daily from 8:00AM to 6:00PM from April 1^st to September 30.
Amenities: Audioguides and Radioguides are available.
Guided Tours and Audio Guides: Audioguides are provided in Italian, German, Polish, Spanish, French and English, while Radioguides are also available.
Scenic View: Spectacular view from St. Peter’s dome
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Dress appropriately ensuring that your shoulders and knees are covered (i.e., no tank tops and wear long shorts or capri pants). Remain as quiet as possible.

Where to Stay:

Courtyard Rome Central Park
Via Giuseppe Mosacti 7
Rome 01168 Italy
Telephone: +39 06 355741

Where to Eat:

Pastasciutta
Via delle Grazie 5
00193, Rome Italy
Telephone: +39 333 650 3758

The first day I tried this restaurant, I ordered the Pappardelle alla Carbonara. I had been waiting for the opportunity to try this Italian dish and fell in love!

My second day of visiting, I tried the Pappardelle ai funghi (mushrooms). Excellent for the price!

What to Eat:

Artichokes: steamed or fried
Cacio e Pepe: Cacio is a type of cheese from Rome’s countryside made from sheep’s milk. The dish is served over pasta and seasoned by black pepper.
Carbonara: creamy white pasta served with pancetta and noodles
Gelato: You have not had gelato until you have had it in Rome!
Maritozzi is a popular breakfast pastry with chocolate chips served with espresso. Some maritozzi are filled with cream as well.
Pecorino Romano cheese
Pizza al Taglio is Rome’s answer to pizza with red sauce, meats, vegetables and cheeses. I also love the Italian margarita pizza with red sauce, mozzarella cheese and topped with basil.
Porcetta: Pork wrapped around herbs and roasted on a spit
Saltimbocca is a dish made with veal and sage wrapped in prosciutto, cooked in white wine and butter.
Suppli is considered an Italian snack made of rice and meat with tomato sauce and filled with mozzarella cheese and then deep-fried. It reminds me of arancini in the US.

Where to Drink:

Il Goccetto (for wine)
Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 14
00186, Roma RM, Italy
Telephone: +39 06 9944 8583

Terrazza Borromini
Via di Santa Maria dell’Anima, 30A
00186 Roma RM, Italy
Telephone: +39 06 6821 5459

While the drinks are pricey, it will be worth the cost for the fabulous views.

What to Read:

Imperium, by Robert Harris
Roma, by Steven Saylor
SPQR, by Mary Beard
The Twelve Caesars, by Robert Grave

Photo Guide for Rome:

Campo de’ Fiori for photos of the market
The Colosseum
Monti for upscale boutiques, restaurants and vintage stores
The Pincio Terrace overlooking Piazza del Popolo in northern Rome
The top of St. Peter’s Basilica
Trastevere neighborhood for scenic alleyways, artisan workshops, the piazza at sunset, and tiny boutiques. Find the corner of Vicolo delle Torro off of Via della Lungaretta for photo-worthy pics.
Trevi Fountain

White Marble Saints

The Ceiling of St. Peter’s Basilica

A Circular Roundel in St. Peter’s Basilica

The Piazzas, Museums and Fountains of Rome

11 March 20252 July 2025

Using my Omnia Roma Pass for the second day, I boarded the Hop On Hop Off bus to visit some of the highlights of the Roman neighborhoods. The Vatican Museum was not yet open, so I started touring the north end of Rome. I had a few hours before heading towards the Port of Civitavecchia for a seven day Mediterranean cruise.

A short walk from the Piazza del Popolo, I arrived at the Spanish Steps where I took a seat on a step to review my map. I found myself distracted by the people around me, but it was a great spot to check out the tourists in the piazza.

The Spanish Steps are popular with both locals and tourists alike. They were designed in the 17^th century to connect the Trinita dei Monti to the Piazza di Spagna below. Francesco de Sanctis was commissioned to design the steps that would one day become one of the most recognized landmarks in Rome. The platforms along the staircase provide great views of Via Condotti in the shopping district. The obelisk of red granite Sallustian stands 43 feet high in front of the church from one of these platforms as well. For a more spectacular view of Rome, tour books highly recommend a climb up the bell tower inside of the Trinita del Monti.

The ruins of Rome are a perfect outdoor museum in itself, but I have always wanted to view the art and archaeological items within the Vatican Museum. Displaying artifacts from over hundreds of years, the inventory was overwhelming and extraordinary. At minimum, I knew I was going to need at least a couple of hours to spend here.

The crowd was thick, pushing me from room to room until I reached the grand finale, Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel!

After having spent about three hours at the Vatican Museum with my thoughts on the Sistine Chapel, I knew it was time for lunch. Since Rome is a maze of unique squares that have a personality of their own, I was looking forward to finding the Campo di Fiore. Translated as the “field of flowers”, this piazza is one of the most colorful squares of Rome and was once a meadow where merchants sold their products. Since the Medieval Period, the Campo di Fiori remains to this day a lively market and meeting place.

Several restaurants border the Campo di Fiori and offer several options for a light lunch. I ordered a glass of Prosecco and the Margarita pizza. I found myself daydreaming and was caught unaware when my meal arrived so quickly. I couldn’t wait to try a slice!

Throughout Rome are souvenir stalls which sell local maps, bus and train tickets, snacks, postcards and tourist information. In contrast to the ancient ruins, it is a modern day necessity.

Back on the bus, I am quickly transported back in time to the entrance of the Roman Forum. This area of Rome was at its peak during the Roman Republic when Julius Caesar was emperor. A set of stairs leads to the Arch of Titus, erected to commemorate the Roman victory over Judea in AD 66. The Forum is the core of the Roman Empire, where decisions were made, deals were struck and death was an everyday occurrence.

To the left of the Arch of Titus is the famous Arch of Constantine which leads into Palatine Hill. The Hill was Rome’s first settlement and was the home of Rome’s founders Romulus and Remus.

The arch’s portico tells the story of Constantine’s Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312 AD. Constantine claimed that he had a vision from God which led to his victory. He swore to legalize Christianity and give his support to Christians.

Another important site in Rome is the Flavian Amphitheater, more commonly known as the Colosseum. After the brutal reign of Nero, it was Vespasian who commissioned the amphitheater as a gift to the Romans. This massive structure could hold up to 55,000 spectators and was built with 80 entrances to allow attendees to find their seats in a record time of 15 minutes.

With only a couple of hours before hailing a taxi to the port, I strolled over towards the Roman Forum for a closer view of the Basilica of Constantine and Maxentius. The three arches are all that remain of the largest building on display in the Forum. The basilica was the central location where the government’s legal and administrative duties were performed.

One final ride on the bus and I have arrived at the Trevi Fountain before taking the subway back to the hotel. This fountain is Rome’s largest and most famous. I took my first glimpse of Neptune rising out of the water with two Tritons and their sea horses and I could not look away. The sculpture is larger than life and the intricate detail and scale of this monolith is nothing less than awesome. I completed my day in Rome by throwing a coin in the fountain, and if the tradition is true, I will one day return to this magnificent place!

Have you ever visited a place that was so exciting but you just couldn’t find the time to see all of the sites? Let me know in the comments section below about your experience and how you handled it! I would also love to hear about your adventures in Rome, any recommendations or suggestions for my next visit! Many thanks for reading about my weekend in Rome and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Trinita dei Monti
Piazza della Trinità dei Monti, 3, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Telephone: +39 06 679 4179

Admission Fee: There is no fee to enter the church, but a small offering is suggested.
Hours: The church is open from 10AM to 8PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; open from noon to 8PM on Wednesday and from 9AM to 8PM on Saturday.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are provided on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 5PM. Reservation is required and there is a fee associated with the tour: Adults are 12 Euro, Students and Children ages 12 – 18 are 6 Euros and Children under the age of 11 are free of charge.
Scenic View: Beautiful views of the plaza and the Via Condotti from the top of the steps leading up to the church.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several steps (the Spanish Steps lead up to the church, so wear comfortable shoes. Dress appropriately covering your shoulders and knees as you may be denied entrance if not covered up. A small offering may be requested so be prepared.

Vatican Museum
00120 Vatican City
Telephone: +390669881022

Admission Fee: 17 Euros to visit the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel independently. For additional types of tours, visit the website directly.
Hours: The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 9AM to 6PM (final entry at 4PM); Every last Sunday of the month, the museum is open from 9AM to 2PM.
Guided Tours: A long list of guided tours are available and can be researched on the website listed above.
Scenic View: Beautiful views of Rome from the various balconies; amazing artifacts and ancient relics as well as artwork in the Sistine Chapel.
Length of Visit: 5 – 6 hours
Tips for Your Visit: If visiting the museum independently, purchase your tickets in advance. Be aware that the museum is very crowded when the cruise ships are in port.

Roman Forum
Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6
00186 Roma RM, Italy
Telephone; +39 06 0608

Admission Fee: 12 Euros per adult, children under the age of 17 are free; The Admission Fee includes entrance into the Palatine Hill and the Colosseum.
Bus/Train Information: Buses 40, 44, 84, 780 and 810; Metro Station – Colosseo, line B- (blue)
Hours: Open daily from 8:30AM to 3:30PM (closed January 1^st and December 25^th) The ticket counter closes one hour before closing time. Confirm with the Roman Forum’s website: https://turisimoroma.it/cosa-fare/fori
Amenities: audio headsets, tour guides (additional charge)
Audio Guides and Guided Tours: Audio guides are available for a nominal fee.
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours total
Tips for Your Visit: Your ticket to the Roman Forum includes The Colosseum and Palatine Hill. For security reasons, it is strictly forbidden to enter the attraction with backpacks, camping equipment, bulky bags, luggage or trolley. Medium and small-sized backpacks are permitted, but may be screened by metal detectors. Bags may also be opened and visually inspected by security. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your water bottle to refill at the drinking fountains.

Colosseum/Flavian Amphitheater
Piazza del Colosseo, 1
00184 Roma RM, Italy

Admission Fee: 12 Euros per adult, children under the age of 17 are free; The Admission Fee includes entrance into Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Additional fee for a guided tour of the underground. All guests are FREE the first Sunday of the month.
Hours: Open daily from 8:30AM to 3:30PM (closed January 1^st and December 25^th) The ticket counter closes one hour before closing time. Confirm with the Colosseum’s website: www.the-colosseum.net/around/visit.htm
Amenities: audio headsets, tour guides (additional charge), bookstore
Audio Guides and Guided Tours: Audio guides are available for a nominal fee.
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours total (another hour for the underground tour)
Tips for Your Visit: The Colosseum is the most visited attraction in Rome. While the ticket line may be long, you may want to consider purchasing your ticket at the Palatine Hill as your ticket also includes entrance into the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, located next door. For security reasons, it is strictly forbidden to enter the attraction with backpacks, camping equipment, bulky bags, luggage or trolley. Medium and small-sized backpacks are permitted, but must be screened by metal detectors. Bags will be opened and visually inspected by security. Due to new security measures it is necessary to arrive at least 30 minutes before collecting your reservation at the ticket counter. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your water bottle where you can fill it with water.

Palatine Hill
Via di San Gregorio, 30
00184, Roma, RM, Italy

Admission Fee: 12 Euros per adult, children under the age of 17 are free; The Admission Fee includes entrance into the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.
Hours: Open daily from 8:30AM to 3:30PM (closed January 1^st and December 25^th) The ticket counter closes one hour before closing time. Confirm with the Colosseum’s website: https://www.romaexperience.com/palatine-hill/
Amenities: audio headsets, tour guides (additional charge), bookstore
Audio Guides and Guided Tours: Audio guides are available for a nominal fee.
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours total
Tips for Your Visit: The Colosseum is the most visited attraction in Rome. Your ticket also includes entrance into the Palatine Hill, located next door. For security reasons, it is strictly forbidden to enter the attraction with backpacks, camping equipment, bulky bags, luggage or trolley. Medium and small-sized backpacks are permitted, but must be screened by metal detectors. Bags will be opened and visually inspected by security. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your water bottle to refill at the drinking fountains and think about bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds.

Hop On/Hop Off Bus