Saint Peter's Square, Baroque square in Vatican City, Holy See
Description
Saint Peter's Square is a large oval plaza in Vatican City that serves as the main entrance to the basilica. Two semicircular colonnades with 142 columns each frame the open space and create a sheltered area for gatherings.
History
Bernini designed the square in the mid-17th century commissioned by Pope Alexander VII to create a dignified reception area in front of the basilica. The work took about eleven years and combined architecture with symbolic meaning.
Culture
The square takes its name from the apostle whose tomb lies beneath the basilica. Pilgrims from around the world gather here to attend ceremonies or receive papal blessings delivered regularly from the balcony above.
Practical
The square is freely accessible every day and offers a level surface suitable for wheelchair users. Early morning hours are quieter and allow a relaxed walk without large crowds.
Did you know?
An ancient obelisk from Egypt has stood at the center since the 16th century and marks the midpoint of the square. This stone pillar is one of the few that has never toppled and remains continuously upright.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Vatican City).
Sistine Chapel
248 m
Pietà
221 m
Apostolic Palace
174 m
Vatican obelisk
78 m
Restoration of the Sistine Chapel frescoes
251 m
Campo Santo Teutonico
248 m
Leonine City
228 m
Borgia Apartment
225 m
Cappella Paolina
213 m
Sala Regia
222 m
Angels Unawares
82 m
Vatican Christmas Tree
187 m
Bronze door of the Apostolic Palace
105 m
Palace of the Holy Office
160 m
The Vision of Constantine
201 m
Sant'Anna dei Palafrenieri
220 m
Fountains of St. Peter's Square
69 m
Church of Santi Michele e Magno
160 m
Vatican loggias
174 m
Museo del tesoro di San Pietro
37 m
Santa Maria della Pietà in Camposanto dei Teutonici
218 m
Palazzo Jacopo da Brescia
204 m
Palazzo Rusticucci-Accoramboni
236 m
San Lorenzo in Piscibus
171 m
Collection of Modern Religious Art, Vatican Museums
225 m
Porta San Pellegrino
147 m
Palazzo Serristori
264 m
Palazzo Cesi Armellini
226 mReal people, real opinions — but not verified.
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Smaller than what one can imagine when seeing images on TV!
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes