Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican (Rome) – Free Audio Guide

In this free audio guide, you will learn about Saint Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican (Rome). The Vatican is located in the center of Rome, Italy. Saint Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world. Join us on an unforgettable journey through the history, architecture, and secrets of this inspiring monument.

Saint Peter’s Basilica – Free Audio Guide

The Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican or simply Saint Peter’s Basilica is a magnificent church built in the Renaissance style located in Vatican City, the papal enclave that is within the city of Rome, Italy.
In this video and audio guide, we will talk about interesting facts, history, architecture, some important personalities, and things that you definitely need to know about the Basilica.
It is approached via Saint Peter’s Square, which is a forecourt in two sections, both surrounded by tall colonnades. The first space is oval and the second is trapezoidal. The façade of the basilica, with a giant order of columns, stretches across the end of the square and is approached by steps on which stand two 5 and a half meters (18 feet) statues of the first-century apostles to Rome, Saints Peter, and Paul.

Useful Takeaways from Saint Peter’s Basilica Audio Guide

• Usually, Basilica is open from 7 AM to 7 PM. And the dome is open from 8 AM to 6 PM. But make sure to check working hours on the Internet in advance.
• To avoid big lines during the heat try to come either at 7 in the morning or after 3 PM.
• Wear appropriate clothing! No shorts, mini skirts, or bare shoulders. 
• Basilica itself is free of charge, as well as access to tombs (from the inside of the church). But to get to the dome you need to pay entrance fees. There are 2 options: a ticket with 551 steps way or a ticket with the elevator, but then you still have to walk through 320 steps. So, it’s certainly not easy, but the view definitely worth it.
• If you want to see the Pope for free you can arrive around 11.30 am on Sunday and stay around Saint Peter’s Square. You will likely see the Pope appear at his window in the papal apartments to the right of the square to give his weekly address at 12. Also, there’s a papal audience held in Saint Peter’s Square or the Vatican’s Nervi Auditorium, almost every Wednesday, at 10:30 AM. You can get free tickets by faxing your request to the Vatican. the number is available on the official website.
• If you plan to visit both the Vatican Museums and Saint Peter’s Basilica, it’s recommended to visit the museums first. The museums tend to get more crowded, and by entering through the museums, you can avoid the long queue to enter the basilica. Also, you will have a chance to check out the well-known Sistine Chapel. After exploring the museums and the Chapel, you can use the special entrance that connects directly to the basilica.