How to Visit Rome's St. Peter's Basilica
One of the most famous churches in the world is St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) in Vatican City (Rome), Italy. Located in the Piazza San Pietro, the church rests over the remains of its namesake saint. Michelangelo's Pieta is on display inside, as well as a famous bronze statue of St. Peter, said to bring visitors luck if they rub his toe.
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Instructions
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Purchase tickets for St. Peter's Basilica. Entrance to the church itself is free. If you wish to ascend the giant dome, however, you can buy a ticket to ride the elevator to the top, saving your legs considerable effort. It is free to climb the stairs to the top, but expect long lines.
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Take public transportation to St. Peter's Basilica. Use buses numbered 23, 64, 98 or 492. If riding Rome's Metro subway system, exit at the Ottaviano stop. St. Peter's Basilica is also within easy walking distance of many of Rome's central attractions and hotels.
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Note the operating hours and days of St. Peter's Basilica. During the months of April through September, it is open every day from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. The rest of the year, it is open from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. The Dome is open from 8:00 a.m. until 5:45 p.m. from April until September; its operating hours are 8:00 a.m. until 4:45 p.m. during the other months. Masses and special assemblies may disrupt normal operating hours; be sure to check the basilica's official website (see resources below) before you go.
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