OUR DESTINATIONS
Let us help you find your perfect holiday by phoning us on
We offer holidays to the four corners of the globe. If you want specialist advise please phone our travel team and we will be happy to help.
Alternatively, check out some of our holiday offers below.
- Destinations
- Europe
- Italy
- Rome
- Vatican City
- St Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)
St Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)
The Basilica lies above the reputed site of St. Peter's tomb. It
is an overwhelming interior, containing notable sculptures
including Michelangelo's
Pieta, which is protected by bullet-proof glass since the
damaging attack on it in 1972. In the central aisle stands Arnolfo
da Cambio's bronze statue of St Peter, its foot worn down by the
constant flow of pilgrims' kisses. Proudly resting above the papal
altar is Bernini's
Throne of St Peter. The Vatican Grottoes, containing papal
tombs, can be reached by steps from the statue of St Longinus. The
Necropolis is located one level below the grottoes. This is the
legendary site of St Peter's tomb and advance permission has to be
obtained to view it. A strict dress code is in place for the
Basilica and no shorts, bare shoulders or miniskirts are allowed
(for men and women).
Information & Facts
Address
Admission
Entry to the Basilica is Free. Entry to the Dome is EUR4
(EUR5 with lift); and entry to the Necropolis is EUR10
Language
The official language of Italy is Italian. English is
understood in the larger cities but not in the more remote parts of
the country.
Money
The Euro (EUR) is the official currency, which is divided into
100 cents. Those arriving in Italy with foreign currency can obtain
Euros through any bank, ATM or bureaux de change. ATMs are
widespread. Travellers cheques can be exchanged with ease in the
large cities, not so in the smaller towns. Credit cards are
accepted in upmarket establishments and shops around the cities.
Banks are closed on weekends, but tend to have better rates than
casas de cambios.
Opening Times
Open daily from 7am to 7pm (April to September), and
7am to 6pm (October to March)