We caught the metro to Ottaviano San Pietro, and within 5 minutes, we were queuing to access Saint Peter’s square. By luck, we were visiting the Vatican on a day (Wednesday) when the Pope gave his public blessing. The square was packed solid and security was high, and within a few minutes of us being there, the Pope appeared in front of the Basilica. We were enthralled, and the atmosphere in the square was electric. Indeed you could virtually hear a pin drop as the Pope’s feeble voice came over the Public Address System. Thousands of people had assembled, most of them to see and hear the Pope and to satisfy their spiritual needs. However, you don’t have to be religious to appreciate the pageantry and the presence of this event. You will be affected in some way. The big screens and PA system help to follow the proceedings, and I didn’t think they detracted from the occasion. If you’re in Rome on a Wednesday, try to make it to the square in the morning. I don’t think you’ll regret it.
After the Pope’s performance, we were offered a free guided tour of St Peter’s. This is half an hour well spent, and you can then return on your own. Make sure you are properly dressed: trousers for the men and covered shoulders for the women.
The Basilica is vast, and the interior is breathtakingly beautiful. I believe it’s the biggest church in Europe (perhaps in the world), and there are markings on the floor to show how other churches would fit in to St Peter’s.
The Basilica is just crammed full of stunning artwork in the form of sculptures, stained glass, paintings, and general architecture with work by Michelangelo, Giotto, and Bernini. You will gasp at the wonderful dome, which soars to a height of over 140 feet and was designed by Michelangelo, and be mesmerized by Bernini’s Throne of St. Peter in Glory. Take in the artistry of The Papal Altar enclosed by Bernini’s magnificent gilded bronze canopy, and ensure a prolonged examination of the incredible monument to Pope Alexander VII (the re-creation of the folds of material is incredible). Michelangelo’s Pieta is open to a variety of interpretations, and I could have wondered at it for ages.
I reckon it’s impossible to do justice to the Basilica. All the statues are in perfect proportion and those at the top of the building, although huge in construction, take account of the onlooker’s eye and seem to be the same size of the much smaller statues at ground level.
Those who contributed to this amazing edifice had such an eye for detail that I cannot believe anyone could claim to know everything about the Basilica. It’s a treat to visit and there are surprises round every corner and at every level. I’d say take the tour and then just follow your eyes for as long as your legs will permit. You will not be disappointed.