Attraction Guide: St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, Vatican City

St. Peter's Square Guide

A Grand Entrance to the Heart of Catholicism Guide

Welcome to St. Peter's Square, a magnificent public space located directly in front of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. This iconic square, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, serves as a gathering place for pilgrims and visitors from around the world. Its sheer scale and architectural grandeur are truly breathtaking, offering a powerful introduction to the spiritual and artistic treasures within Vatican City. Prepare to be awestruck by the harmonious blend of art, faith, and history that permeates every corner of this remarkable space. The history of St. Peter's Square is deeply intertwined with the history of the Catholic Church. The area was originally a simple open space in front of the Old St. Peter's Basilica, built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century. In the 17th century, Pope Alexander VII commissioned Bernini to redesign the square to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims visiting the Vatican. Bernini's design, completed in 1667, created the elliptical shape we see today, enclosed by massive colonnades and adorned with statues of saints. The central obelisk, brought from Egypt by Emperor Caligula, stands as a silent witness to centuries of history. Visitors to St. Peter's Square can enjoy a variety of activities. Simply strolling through the square and admiring the architecture is a rewarding experience. You can attend a Papal Audience (reservations required), climb to the top of St. Peter's Basilica for panoramic views, or explore the Vatican Museums located nearby. Be sure to take plenty of photos and soak in the atmosphere of this historically and religiously significant site. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with the square itself, numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding area offer traditional Roman cuisine.