Where are you headed next? Is Rome on your list? Rome is Italy’s capital city and is filled with wonderful architecture and historic sites everywhere you look. One of our favourite places to visit in Rome is St. Peter’s Basilica.

St. Peter’s Basilica was constructed in the 16^th and 17^th centuries, replacing a church now known as ‘Old St. Peter’s Basilica’, which was built in the fourth century. St. Peter’s Basilica is located on what are known as holy grounds according to Catholic tradition. It is said that St. Peter was buried at this location. Peter was one of Jesus’ twelve apostles. After Christ’s death, Peter was a leader in the early Christian church and became the first Pope.

Although St. Peter’s Basilica is an important site in the Catholic faith and often even a destination of pilgrimage, it is not officially the basilica of the Pope. Rather, it is a church used for large ceremonies and for papal burials, as St. Peter’s Basilica is known to be the largest Christian church in the world.

Fancy a visit? The basilica is open each day from 7am-7pm from April to September and from 7am-6pm from October to March. Take the subway’s red line toward Battistini and get off at Ottaviano-S Pietro. Daily masses (in Italian) are held throughout the day.

Keep in mind that St. Peter’s Basilica has a dress code. Do not wear your shorts or mini skirts when you visit the basilica. Even on a hot summer day, both men and women wearing shorts may be sent out because they are lacking conservative dress.

Words cannot describe the ornate detail of St. Peter’s Basilica. It is well worth a visit whilst staying in Rome. Search for apartments in Rome to plan your next stay with us. Rome is a beautiful city that you just can’t miss. You can also check out apartments near St. Peter’s Basilica or the Vatican City.

We hope you love Rome and put St. Peter’s Basilica on your list of must-see attractions while staying in a self-catering apartment. Enjoy!