St Peter's Basilica and Underground Grottoes Tickets

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Rome, exploring the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica, its iconic dome, and the historic underground grottoes. Our comprehensive tour will take you throug

St. Peter’s Square: The Gateway to a World of Wonder

Your adventure begins in the breathtaking St. Peter’s Square, a masterpiece designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. As you stand amidst the impressive colonnades and gaze upon the towering obelisk, your expert guide will provide you with fascinating insights into the history and significance of this grand space.

Ascending the Dome: A Panoramic View of Rome’s Eternal Beauty

Prepare yourself for an awe-inspiring climb to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica’s dome. As you ascend, marvel at the intricate mosaics that adorn the interior. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Rome’s enchanting skyline. From this vantage point, you can spot iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum.

The Basilica’s Interior: A Treasure Trove of Art and History

As you descend into the heart of the Basilica, prepare to be amazed by the opulent display of colorful marble, golden ceilings, and intricate mosaics. Your knowledgeable guide will share the stories behind the renowned works of Renaissance and Neoclassic artists that grace the walls of this extraordinary edifice, including Michelangelo’s emotive ‘Pietà’ statue and Bernini’s exquisite ‘Baldacchino’.

The largest church in the world, it rises on the site where the Prince of the Apostles, Saint Peter, is buried. In ancient times, many early Christians suffered martyrdom here.

Today, it is a Pantheon of Christianity, rich in statues and monuments to the Popes. According to Church tradition, the early Christians erected a small oratory on the site of Saint Peter’s Tomb, which was destroyed in 326 when Constantine founded the first Basilica here. It had double aisles. Over the centuries, the church became lavishly decorated.

In 1452 because ruin threatened the building, Nicholas V commissioned Bernardo Rossellino to design a new structure, of more extensive proportions. When the Pope died, in 1455, the work was interrupted. In 1506, Pope Julius II resumed the work on a grand scale. Bramante, under this pope, designed the building in the form of a Greek cross.

Bramante did not live to complete the project, and his successors were Raphael, Baldassarre Peruzzi, and finally, Antonio da Sangallo the Younger. Raphael’s plan was a Latin cross, but he, too, did not live to complete the work. The project was taken over, In 1546, by Michelangelo, who adopted tho design of ;» Crook cross with a majestic dome Upon his death, Vignola, Pirro Ligorio, Giacomo della Porta, and Domenico Fontana continued the work Subsequently, under Paul V, the plan was changed from a Crook to a latin Cross, by Carlo Maderno, who also designed the facade. The Basilica was dedicated by Urbano VIII, on Nov 18, 1626.

Delving into the Past: The Underground Grottoes and St. Peter’s Tomb

Venture beneath the Basilica into the historic grottoes, where you’ll discover the final resting place of St. Peter himself. As you touch the ancient walls of the original 4th-century Basilica, your guide will reveal the remarkable history and stunning frescoes that make these underground chambers truly unforgettable.

Concluding Your Journey: St. Peter’s Square and Its Majestic Architecture

Your tour concludes in the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square, where you’ll have the opportunity to absorb the majestic architecture that surrounds you. This unforgettable experience provides a comprehensive and intimate exploration of one of Rome’s most iconic sites.

Important Information

• Modest clothing is required to enter the Basilica (knees and shoulders must be covered)
• Bring comfortable shoes and headphones for an optimal experience
• Please note that the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Necropolis are not part of this tour
• Be prepared for security checks at the entrance of the square; these lines may take 15-120 minutes and cannot be skipped

Embark on this unforgettable journey through Rome’s history, art, and culture by booking your St. Peter’s Basilica Dome to Underground Grottoes Tour today. Our expert guides are ready to share their extensive knowledge and passion for this remarkable destination with you. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the Eternal City.