[Vatican City] St. Peter's Basilica

#TravelWithPochiKatsu This magnificent cathedral is the headquarters of the Catholic Church, which has over one billion followers worldwide. Every year, countless believers from around the world make pilgrimages to it. It can accommodate a maximum of 60,000 people. St. Peter's Basilica was originally the cathedral dedicated to the tomb of the Apostle Peter, and is one of the largest Christian churches in the world. Founded in the 4th century, it was originally a basilica-style church with a wooden ceiling. However, in the 16th century, Pope Julius II drew up plans for its reconstruction. Instead of the basilica style, Bramante's plan for a large dome at the center of a cruciform plan was adopted, and construction began in 1506. After a delay following Bramante's death in 1514, Pope Julius III ordered Michelangelo to continue the work in 1546. Based on Bramante's plan, he created a more sculptural design that focused on the central dome, and construction resumed. After Michelangelo's death in 1564, several architects continued the work, and it was completed almost exactly according to the original plan in 1589. The interior of the basilica contains 11 chapels and 45 altars, adorned with ornaments and artwork by renowned artists. Immediately to the right as you enter St. Peter's Basilica is a marble statue enclosed in a crystal case. This is the original "Pietà," one of Michelangelo's masterpieces. Facing the great baldachin, placed on the right hand side of the central nave is the bronze statue of St. Peter, the leader of the Twelve Apostles of Christ. The baldacchino (great canopy), supported by four spiral columns, was apparently designed to mark the location of St. Peter's tomb, which lies beneath it. The cupola (great dome), the symbol of St. Peter's Basilica, towers directly above the baldacchino and overwhelms all visitors. The double-structured cupola can not only be viewed, but can also be explored by walking along the inner and outer cloisters. (Ticket required) Early in the morning, there are fewer people, so you can explore at your leisure. ✨ [Same-day tickets] Cathedral: Free (no ticket purchase required) Double Dome: 10 euros (elevator), 8 euros (stairs) [Advance reservations (priority entry)] Cathedral: 7 euros Double Dome: 22 euros (elevator), 17 euros (stairs) St. Peter's Basilica Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City #VaticanCity