Basilica di San Pietro

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the world’s holiest Catholic shrines, visited by thousands of pilgrims and tourists every month. Built on the site where Peter, the apostle was crucified and buried, the famous basilica is the epicenter of the Catholic Church. It’s also the burial site of many popes, including Pope John Paul II. St. Peter’s Basilica is Italy’s largest, and Rome’s most famous church, centered in the heart of Vatican City. It’s enormous dome can be seen from all over Rome. It’s especially beautiful at night when the city’s skyline is illuminated.

Michelangelo’s “Pieta”

St. Peter’s Basilica is also a museum, filled with priceless masterpieces of Renaissance and Baroque works of art. One of its most famous pieces is Michelangelo’s monumental marble sculpture “Pieta” (pictured below). The sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary holding Jesus in her lap, brought down after his crucifixion.