St. Peter's Cathedral is one of the greatest Christian churches in the World. This place is rightfully considered sacred, because the Vatican contains many sacred relics and memorial buildings.

About the Cathedral

Rome is one of the most ancient cities in the world with a rich history and amazing architecture. Every year, tourists from all over the world come to the capital of Italy to see the sights of the city. One of the most famous places is St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

The architecture of this building is striking at first glance: a huge spacious dome, columns and a tall obelisk in the middle of the square... All this looks majestic and impressive. A closed place, sacred to all Christians - the Vatican - lifts the veil of secrecy, allowing you to find yourself in one of the many parts of the temple.

Who is the architect of St. Peter's Cathedral? He was not alone, they changed often, but this did not stop him from creating a wonderful structure, which is considered an item of world cultural heritage. The place where the Pope lives - the main person of the world Christian religion, - will always remain one of the greatest and most popular among travelers. The holiness and significance of this temple for humanity cannot be overestimated.

St. Peter's Basilica from outside

The building that can be seen today was completely thought out by the architect of St.
Petra - Michelangelo.

The sculptural groups on the facade of the temple are the greatest creation the best masters Italy. Taking a closer look, you can see that these tall statues depict Jesus Christ, John the Baptist and the apostles. The obelisk near the temple also has its own meaning. It is otherwise called the “needle”, and it is believed that the ashes of Julius Caesar rest at its base.

The colonnade, connecting on both sides of the cathedral, is also an important part of the architectural complex. It was erected according to the design of one of the architects of St. Peter's Cathedral - Bernini. At the top of the colonnade there is a row of statues of one hundred and forty saints. Among them are a significant number of women. They all look out from the heights of the colonnades.

In front of the entrance stands a statue of the Apostle Paul - a symbolic move by the sculptors, drawing a parallel between the entrance to Paradise and the entrance to the Cathedral.

St. Peter's Cathedral: history, description

The history of the creation of the structure is full of mysteries and secrets. Unfortunately, St. Peter's Basilica is relatively new temple compared to other shrines in Europe. The one that exists today is significantly different from the cathedral on which the great architects and sculptors worked.

Many people took place in the temple historical events. The foundation of the temple and the first basilica were built during the coronation of the king of the Franks and Lombards, Charlemagne, who first united the French lands.

During its existence, the structure of the building burned several times and was again restored by architects. Much effort was made to restore St. Peter's Basilica. The holy places of Rome, to which believers make pilgrimages every year, almost all of them are located here.

This place is especially important for the entire Christian world: here you can visit the room where the relics of the Apostle Peter are kept.

Michelangelo

The history of the temple is so great that it is difficult to answer the question: "What great architects were the main builders of St. Peter's Basilica?" This building has seen various artists, sculptors and architects, but only a few have done truly important things.

Many people have made efforts to create such a project as St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Michelangelo Buonarroti is the main architect of the temple, whose contribution to its construction was very significant. He was hired by one of the most influential families of Florence - the Medici. The architect of St. Peter's Cathedral, who was earlier, planned to make the dome in the shape of an elongated cross. But it is precisely thanks to Michelangelo’s design that the dome of the cathedral has a spherical shape. As the chief architect of St. Peter's Cathedral, the artist created paintings and sculptures for the temple. Soon, one of the representatives of the Medici family was elected Pope. The newly elected Leo X appointed Michelangelo, now officially, as the chief architect of the Cathedral.

An interesting fact is that the great sculptor and artist Buonarroti for a long time refused to work on the architecture of such a project as St. Peter's Cathedral. Michelangelo, however, later agreed and radically changed the idea of ​​the building.

Sculpture and remains of the Apostle Peter

The statue of the Apostle Peter is the main attraction of the Cathedral. The sculpture seems both stern and welcoming. In addition, she is considered a saint. There is a tradition: when visiting the cathedral, you must touch the foot of this figure. It is believed that after this the spirit forgives the person all his sins. The heart of the one who touches the leg must be pure, even if the person has done a lot of bad things. Every day there are so many people who want to touch the marble foot of the saint that museum curators have to polish its surface from time to time.

However, another place is considered the most sacred. It is located underground. This is a crypt where the relics of saints are kept. Column with the remains of the Apostle Peter, in whose honor the Cathedral is named - the most important part the entire temple-museum. The chief architect of St. Peter's Cathedral created a descent into the crypt. It resembles a staircase to the underworld, however, having descended, everyone pays attention to the remains - the skeletons of saints. The crypt is quite dark, which creates an otherworldly feeling.

Dome of the Cathedral

The dome of St. Peter's Basilica is one of the largest in Europe. It rests on four massive pillars decorated with stucco and sculptures.

Above the pillars there are loggias where relics were previously kept. Under each of the relics there is a corresponding statue of a saint.

The sculpture of the Apostle Andrew the First-Called is a man who holds a beam of wood and calls out to Heaven. There is an expression of torment and suffering on his face.

Another statue is the Holy Queen Helen Equal to the Apostles. She holds a huge cross - a symbol of Faith. Her second hand is directed towards the viewer, her face is calm and peaceful.

The sculpture of Saint Veronica conveys a completely different mood. In her pose there is dynamics, movement. Saint Veronica holds a cloth in her hands, which she gave to Jesus so that he could wipe his face. She seems to be handing it over, and the expression on her face shows determination and confidence. The fourth column is decorated with a statue of St. Longinus. The saint looks menacingly stern, holding a spear in one hand. The other hand extends to the side. In his posture you can read anger and thirst for justice.

Floor made of tombstones. Sculpture "Moses"

St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and its tombs are the most fascinating thing in the whole temple. Its peculiarity is that in one of the halls of the Cathedral the floor is a series of tombstones.

When you walk on it, you feel incredible excitement, a sense of holiness and connection with the Almighty.

Inside the temple there are many frescoes, on the floors, ceilings, walls... High art surrounds everywhere - images of biblical scenes.

The sculpture of Moses is one of the favorite places for tourists. This statue depicts a hero Old Testament, who led his people out of the desert and became a great savior for Christians. In the folds of his robe, his facial expression, and the tense muscles of his arms, one senses excitement and responsibility for all of humanity. In his posture there is a readiness for the blows of fate, a desire to resist fate. The thick beard is sculpted so realistically that it looks like real hair. She gives Moses a stern look, which for a moment even makes him afraid.

Sculptures of the Right Nave

The famous marble Pieta, created by the hands of Michelangelo, is a world masterpiece of art. The sculpture seems to be alive, it makes you feel a sense of sorrow, quiet grief for the dying Christ. The folds of fabric, the smooth face of the Virgin Mary - all this looks so realistic that it seems as if, having overcome many centuries, they instantly appeared in the hall, and we have just become unwitting spectators of the tragedy that has occurred. The Virgin Mary's eyelids are lowered, she closed her eyes in grief. In the pose of Christ there is amazing helplessness. This sculpture, very strong psychologically and emotionally, took years to create, and the slightest mistake could lead to the loss of the form and the whole idea. However, master Michelangelo created her so tender and sad that she looks truly alive.

Not far from the Pieta is the Tomb of Matilda of Tuscany, decorated with a sculpture of a female warrior and several cupids at her feet. It was executed by the sculptor Bernini.

The Sistine Chapel

One of the most famous frescoes of world art - created by Michelangelo. The largest painting at that time in scale adorned the largest cathedral in the world - St. Peter's Basilica. At that time, Julius II was Pope. He invited young Michelangelo to do this work. He did not yet have sufficient skills in painting, but agreed and began to work. Today, it would take more than five hours to study this fresco in detail. The variety of lines, folds of fabric on the figures and scenes of the Bible is captivating and does not allow you to look away. You can see Christ crucified on the cross, and scenes from the Old Testament... For example, the creation of the World, the creation of Adam and Eve, the separation of water from land, the expulsion of people from Paradise, the sacrificial Noah, the frightened Delphic Sibyl, the prophets...

In the corners of the chapel are the oldest passages from the Bible: The Brazen Serpent, Judith and Holofernes, The Punishment of Haman.

The chapel was restored several times, but did not lose its beauty and integrity of composition.

St. Peter's Basilica, located in the Vatican (Basilica di San Pietro), is one of the most visited attractions in Rome. The history of the famous cathedral dates back to the 4th century: just imagine how many masterpieces of art are stored within its walls! The construction and decoration of the cathedral was carried out by the most outstanding architects of different times.

And don't let it scare you huge queue, which usually accumulates in front of the cathedral: you should definitely visit it. After all, this is the most significant Catholic church in the world! And by climbing the dome, you can admire the gorgeous views of the capital of Italy.

The history of St. Peter's Basilica

Initially, a Roman basilica was built on the site of the modern cathedral: its construction dates back to the 4th century. At that time, the empire was ruled by Constantine I (Flavius ​​Valerius Aurelius Constantinus). The basilica was consecrated in honor of the Apostle Peter, who died as a martyr in 64-67 AD. – it was over his grave that the first altar was created.

Architects and construction of the cathedral

During its existence, the church went through more than one reconstruction, but by the 16th century it had already partially collapsed. Then, by decision of Pontiff Julius II, restoration work began ancient temple. Donato Bramante was appointed as the architect, who planned to rebuild the small basilica in the form of a large cross with a huge dome.

However, the famous architect failed to complete the plan: he died in 1514. His successor was Raphael Santi, who worked on the construction of the cathedral together with his assistant Fra Giocondo, and later with Giuliano da Sangallo.

After Raphael's death construction work was led by the architect Antonio da Sangallo, who proposed building a basilica in the shape of a Latin cross. He also failed to turn his plan into reality.

When da Sangallo died (in 1546), Pope Paul III appointed Michelangelo as chief architect: he decided to return to Bramante's original architectural plan.

Michelangelo carried out a colossal amount of work, but the construction of the temple was completed by Giacomo Della Porta - after Michelangelo’s death in 1564. It was at that time that decorative fragments of proto-Baroque appeared in the cathedral. The famous architect, together with Domenico Fontana, carried out work on the construction of the dome and main vault of the cathedral.

Opening of the cathedral and subsequent reconstruction

The opening of St. Peter's Basilica occurred in 1590, when Pope Sixtus V celebrated the first mass there. However, work on the external design of the temple continued: a colonnade was erected, including 36 columns, a massive cross over the dome and a golden lantern.

When Pope Paul V came to power, it was decided to lengthen part of the building and also add side naves - as a result, the cathedral received the shape of a Latin cross. Work to change the temple was led by Carlo Maderno in the 17th century.

St. Peter's Square

He was directly involved in the construction of the square in front of the cathedral (Piazza San Petro). Giovanni Lorenzo Bernini (Giovanni Lorenzo Bernini) from 1656 to 1667. As planned, the large-scale area was supposed to accommodate great amount believers wishing to receive the pope's blessing or participate in religious events.

Today, up to 400 thousand people can be here at the same time.

The oval-shaped square is surrounded by two galleries of columns: in total there are 284 Doric columns, as well as 80 pillars. Directly on the attic, which tops the colonnade, there are 140 sculptures of saints. If you look from above, the area resembles a key.

Architecture

When looking at St. Peter's Basilica, the first thing that impresses you is its scale. The building, together with the dome, reaches a height of about 132 meters, and the total area is 23 thousand square meters. m. The height of the Baroque facade is 48 meters, width - 118 meters.

Facade

The facade of the cathedral is decorated with classical columns, behind which there are five portals. These are the Gates of Good and Evil (Porta del Bene del Male), the Gates of Death (Porta della Morte), the Gates of Filarete (Porta del Filarete), the Holy Gates (Porta Santa) and the Gates of the Sacraments (Porta dei Sacramenti).

Very interesting appearance have the Doors of Death: they were created in the 20th century by the master Giacomo Manzu.

Above the columns there is an attic with sculptures - a statue of Christ, 11 apostles and John the Baptist. The length of the main statue reaches 5 meters. And the central portal of the temple itself is framed by equestrian statues of Emperor Constantine, made in 1670 by Bernini, and Charlemagne, created in the 18th century by Augustino Cornacchini.

In addition, on the facade of the building you can admire the magnificent 18th century clock by Giuseppe Veledier, as well as the Navicella degli Apostoli fresco painted in the 13th century by Giotto di Bondone.

What to see inside

Upon entering the cathedral, you are struck by the huge interior space, richly decorated with decorative elements. Just imagine: the height of the arched vaults separating the central nave from the two side naves is 23 meters high and 13 meters wide. Thanks to this design, a feeling of endless depth of space is created - the total area is about 2500 square meters. m.

Note the amazing marble floors - some elements have been partially preserved from the original basilica.

The interior decoration of the cathedral was mainly done by Gian Lorenzo Bernini - it was he who created the famous statue of the Roman centurion Longinus. By the way, the original tip of the centurion’s spear is kept in the cathedral.

Department

Bernini's main masterpiece in the cathedral is the huge canopy, at the base of which there are four pillars - the cevorium. Directly above the canopy is a pulpit by the same artist, created in honor of St. Peter. It includes the chair of St. Peter, supported by statues of saints - above them the symbol of the Holy Spirit floats.

WITH right side from the pulpit is the tombstone of Pope Urban VIII (also made by Bernini), and on the left side is the tombstone of Paul III, which was created by Guglielmo della Porta in the 16th century.

Statue of Saint Peter

If you go through the entire gallery, in the last arch you will see a bronze statue of St. Peter, to which numerous believers come to worship. There is usually a queue near the statue, but people pass by quite quickly.

It is believed that you need to touch it and pray - then your prayers will be heard. In Saint Peter's left hand are the keys to heaven.

central part

Take a walk along the central nave of the temple: in the niches there are statues of Saints Helena Sophia Barat, Teresa, Vincenzo de Paoli, John Bosco, Philip Neri, John, John Baptista de la Sale.

In the very center of the temple you can see numerous mosaic paintings created according to Domenichino’s sketches. Note the memorial to Pius VII, which was made by Bertel Thorvaldsen. The tombs of pontiffs and exquisitely decorated chapels are also located here.

Of greatest interest is the Gregorian Chapel.

Right nave

The central sculptural group in the right nave - “Pieta” - was made in 1499 by Michelangelo himself. The title of the masterpiece is translated as “Lamentation of Christ.” Next to it is a monument to Pontiff Leo XII, created in the 19th century by Giuseppe de Fabris, as well as a monument to Princess Christina by Carl Fontana (17th century).

Nearby is the tomb of Margravine Matilda of Canossa, one of Bernini’s masterpieces. She was the first woman buried in St. Peter's Basilica.

In the small Crucifixion Chapel there is a very beautiful wooden crucifix: it is believed to have been made by Pietro Cavallini in the 13th century.

Chapel of St. Sebastian

Amazing mosaics are located in the Capelle di San Sebastiano - the work of master Piero Paolo Cristofari. By the way, the sketches of the mosaics belong to Domenichino. Looking at the vault, you can admire the amazing mosaics made by Pietro da Cortona.

Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament

The decoration of the Chapel of the Holy Communion (Capella del Santissimo Sacramento) was carried out by Carlo Maderno and Francesco Borromini. Special attention What attracts you in the chapel is its amazing decorative latticework.

Nearby is the tombstone of Gregory III - the bas-relief decorating it symbolizes the reform that the Pope carried out. It was he who introduced the new (Gregorian) calendar.

Left nave

In the left nave you can admire the memorial to the Stuarts, made in the 19th century by Antonio Canova. Also worthy of admiration are the magnificently decorated 18th-century tomb of Maria Clementina Sobeski by Pietro Bracci and the tomb of Pontiff Innocent VIII, created by the 15th-century master Antonio del Pollaiolo.

Look at the tomb of Alexander VII - it was decorated by Bernini himself. The bronze and marble ensemble includes a sculpture of the praying pontiff surrounded by statues of Truth, Mercy, Prudence and Justice. And in the foreground there is a skeleton, symbolizing death: in his hands you can see an hourglass.

Chapel of Epiphany

Walking along the left nave, pay attention to the Chapel of the Baptism (Capella del Battesimo) - it was created according to the design of Carlo Fontana, and its mosaic design was carried out by Baciccio.

Dome

The grandiose dome of St. Peter's Cathedral, visible from afar, weighs as much as 14 thousand tons. Its internal diameter is about 41 meters and its height is approximately 117 meters. The dome was created according to the architectural plan of Michelangelo himself: initially the structure was supposed to have the diameter of an ideal sphere.

The construction of the dome was carried out by Giacomo della Porta - he made the necessary changes to the structure to ensure its stability. However, by the 18th century, the structure began to collapse: massive chains helped save the dome - they used them to tighten the vault.

The dome has 16 windows that are separated by double columns, and the structure is supported internally by four massive columns. While in the cathedral, you can admire the amazing mosaics by Giovanni De Vecchi.

How to get to St. Peter's Basilica

The cathedral is located in Piazza San Pietro. How to get there:

• by metro (line A) with a stop at San Pietro or Ottaviano: the exit from the first station is closer to the square, and from the second – closer to the museums;
• by buses No. 11, 23, 32, 81, 590, 982 - you need to get off at the Risorgimento stop;
• if you plan to immediately go to St. Peter's Basilica and museums upon arrival at Termini Station, then buses No. 40 and 64 are suitable for you;
• by tram number 19, which stops near the cathedral on San Pietro.

Opening hours

St. Peter's Basilica in Rome can be visited:

• in summer - from 7.00 am to 19.00 pm;
• in winter - from 7.00 to 18.30 pm;
• On Wednesday mornings the cathedral is closed (until approximately 13.00) - at this time papal audiences are held.

You can climb the dome every day:

• from 8.00 to 17.00 from October to March;
• from 8.00 to 18.00 from April to September.

Ticket price

Entrance to the cathedral itself is free (as of 2019).

The cost of climbing the dome depends on how many steps you are willing to climb:

• The first option: you take the elevator and walk up 320 steps. It will cost 10 Euro.
• The second option: you climb on foot, passing 551 steps, for only 8 Euros.

Please note that in the upper part the width of the passage is only 50 cm - it is not very comfortable to climb. In total, the ascent and descent will take you about 1 hour.

Tours of the Vatican

To avoid getting lost in the many masterpieces of the Vatican, take a special tour from a knowledgeable guide: he will take you around the small state, showing St. Peter's Basilica and famous museums. This way you won’t miss anything important and will listen to the guide’s fascinating stories about the history and art of the Vatican.

Check out the excursion program for you and your company on the website.

St. Peter's Basilica is the main attraction not only of the Vatican, but also of Rome. It received its name from the grave of the Apostle Peter, presumably located on this site. This is a grandiose cathedral, inside which the largest temples in Europe can fit. The height of the dome of the cathedral is 136 m. According to tradition, no building in Rome can be higher than the dome of St. Peter's Cathedral.

The cathedral took about 50 years to build and was almost completely completed in 1607. Several generations of great masters worked on its creation: Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, Bernini. Capacity is about 60,000 people + 400 thousand people in the area.

Typically, a visit to St. Peter's Basilica is a continuation of a tour of the Vatican Museums. After visiting the Sistine Chapel, we go down to the courtyard and move to St. Peter's Basilica.

Groups go one after another in a continuous stream

Along the way I take pictures of a sculpture in a niche of buildings

You can drink holy water for free at the spring.

Source of "Holy Water"

It is known that there are 5 doors leading to St. Peter's Basilica. One of the doors leading to the Cathedral is special. This is the Holy Door, it is walled up with concrete. It opens only on the Holy, or Jubilee, year, celebrated every quarter of a century. Every 25 years, on Christmas Eve (December 25), the concrete is broken before the anniversary year. In accordance with a special ritual, after three kneelings and three blows of the hammer, the Holy Door swings open, and the Pope, taking the cross in his hands, is the first to enter the cathedral. At the end of the Jubilee Year, the door is closed again and sealed for the next 25 years. In ancient times, the beginning of the jubilee year was marked by the sound of a trumpet made from a goat's horn, called yobel, from which the word "jubilee" comes.

We are fortunate that the current Pope Francis has decided to reduce this period to fifteen years. The last Jubilee was in 2000, and the new one began in December 2015, and therefore the door is open until December 25, 2016. Hurry up, who wants to see her

Fragment of the Holy Door.

The 16 rectangular panels of the Holy Door are separated by the coats of arms of the 36 popes who celebrated their anniversary years. The main theme of the scenes depicted on the panels is the atonement of human sins by the grace of God. The Lord knocks on everyone's door and waits for us to open it for him.

You have to shoot above your heads, there is a continuous stream, and you can’t stop. That's why I'm only showing the top few panels.

Above: Annunciation.

Bottom: Return of the Prodigal Son (left) and Healing of the Paralytic (right).

Inside, the cathedral amazes with its harmony of proportions, its enormous size, and the richness of its decoration - there are a lot of statues, altars, tombstones, and many wonderful works of art.

Along the entire perimeter of St. Peter's Cathedral there are numerous chapels, each of which is beautiful in its own way. In the first chapel of the right nave next to the Holy Door is the brilliant creation of the twenty-year-old Michelangelo “Lamentation of Christ” (Pietà).

The sculpture was carved from a single block of white Carrara marble, and on the ribbon encircling the Madonna, the sculptor carved the inscription “Michelangelo is a Florentine.” Michelangelo worked on this creation for more than two years. The sculpture depicts Holy Virgin Mary holding her dead son, Christ, on her lap. The beauty of the lines, the ideal proportions of life-size bodies, the young faces and the sorrow of the Mother are so obvious that you want to freeze in silent bow before the immortal masterpiece. Michelangelo was the first master to polish his marble sculptures. As a result, they are smooth and shiny; no one has done this before. About thirty years ago, when I was here for the first time, you could get close to the Pieta. After a vandal attacked the statue with a hammer and damaged it, it is now under special glass. There are always a lot of people standing near the fence behind which the Pietà is located. We also stood there for a long time, looking at the details and admiring how accurately Michelangelo’s genius was able to convey the subtlest emotions of a grieving mother and the details of the body and clothes.

St. Peter's Basilica is home to an endless array of famous monuments, including the 13th-century bronze statue of St. Peter the Blessing, which is credited with miraculous properties.

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Statue of Saint Peter Blessing

The statue of St. Peter, made of bronze by an unknown Syrian sculptor, enjoys extraordinary fame. It is believed that if you touch it and pray, your prayers will be heard. This custom is very ancient, so one foot of the statue is erased from the touches of worshipers.

In his left hand, the Holy Apostle Peter holds the keys to heaven. The wall behind the statue is decorated with mosaics rather than fabric.

The total length of the basilica is 211.6 m. On the floor of the central nave there are marks showing the dimensions of other largest cathedrals in the world, which allows them to be compared with the largest St. Peter's Cathedral. The letters are made of copper. To make the marks visible, they are fenced off from tourists with burgundy barriers.

The famous dome, designed by Michelangelo, is 42.5 meters in diameter.

Michelangelo's vault was realized according to the master's sketches: a sphere extending upward, decorated with coffered decoration. You can stand with your head up and look at the dome of the Cathedral and the details of its decor for hours.

In the very center of the dome is God the Father. Around there is an inscription in Latin: "S. PETRI GLORIAE SIXTUS PP. V.A. MDXC PONTIF. V." ("To the glory of St. Peter, Pope Sixtus V in the year 1590, in the fifth year of the pontificate")

In the under-dome space above the main altar there is Bernini’s masterpiece - a huge, 29 m high canopy on four twisted columns on which stand statues of angels. Although the canopy does not look particularly large in the interior of the cathedral, it is equal in height to a 4-story building.

It is believed that under it is the place where the Apostle Peter was buried. The stairs from here lead down to the Vatican necropolis.

Bernini's Chair of St. Peter is visible through the canopy. It includes the chair of St. Peter, supported by four statues of the church fathers, above which the symbol of the Holy Spirit floats in radiance.

Inside the cathedral there are many chapels, where there are statues and sculptures, tombstones and tombs of Roman popes and emperors. Wealth interior decoration It simply amazes with its magnificence!

All popes are buried in the necropolis under St. Peter's Basilica. The tombstones of only the most worthy of them are installed in the cathedral itself.

One of these was Pope Benedict XIII

Angels holding a vessel with holy water. IN different places they are different

The tombs, made by Italian masters, are in themselves works of art.

Under the altar stands a sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Pope John XXIII

Blessed John XXIII (November 25, 1881 - June 3, 1963), Pope since 1958. Having ascended the papal throne, he advocated peace and peaceful coexistence of states with different social systems. The Italians called him "Good Pope".

Altar Immaculate Conception in the choir chapel. Mosaic 1744-47 after a painting by Bianchi depicting the Immaculate Virgin in glory, surrounded by angels. On December 8, 1854, on the day of the establishment of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, Pope Pius IX decorated the image of Mary with a crown, 50 years later Pope Pius X added 9 stars,

Luxury and grandeur

Equestrian statue of Emperor Charlemagne, the first to be crowned in the cathedral (old)

Charlemagne knelt when he was crowned with the imperial crown by Pope Leo III on Christmas Day in 800.

We leave St. Peter's Basilica and head towards the square

St. Peter's Square

Entry and exit from the Vatican is guarded by the Swiss Guard.

Swiss Guard

The variegated shape, dating back to the 16th century, is striking. Since then, it has hardly changed: a helmet or beret, a white collar, camisoles and trousers with red, yellow and blue stripes. According to legend, the uniform of the papal guards was invented by Michelangelo.

For many centuries, the only weapon of the Swiss Guards was a two-meter medieval halberd.

The Guard was officially founded in 1506 and has just over 100 members. Guardsmen form a guard of honor during receptions and state visits to the Vatican. The guards are also responsible for the personal safety of the Pope, accompanying him during trips to St. Peter's Square in a special armored vehicle (the so-called “Popemobile”).

Two Swiss Guards are representatives of the armed forces of the Vatican State. They are prohibited from getting married, wearing a mustache and beard, being less than 174 cm tall, and being under 19 or over 30 years of age. By the way, only bachelors are accepted into the guard. They can marry only with a special permit, which is issued to those who have served for more than three years and have the rank of corporal, and their chosen ones must adhere to the Catholic religion.

After walking a few meters, we find ourselves in St. Peter's Square - the largest Roman square, its dimensions are 340 by 240 meters. The piazza was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1656-1667.

View of St. Peter's Basilica from the square.

Classical columns support an attic topped with 13 statues. A five-meter statue of Christ, surrounded by John the Baptist and 11 apostles, adorns the front of St. Peter's Basilica. The facade of the temple is also decorated with a clock created in the 18th century by Giuseppe Valadier.

In front of the entrance to the cathedral there are statues of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. Peter holds in his hands the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven, handed to him by the Lord.

In conclusion, a few photos of the square itself

St. Peter's Square is surrounded by two arcs of majestic colonnades, decorated with magnificent sculptures of 140 statues. In the center is an ancient Egyptian obelisk, brought here by order of Emperor Caligula in 37 AD.

On the left side of the photo above the colonnade you can see part of the residence of the Pope. This is where the Pope delivers his Sunday sermon.

St. Peter's Square

St. Peter's Basilica and the square are repeatedly described in many sources, but none of them can convey the sacred and reverent feeling that arises from its direct visual perception.

We say goodbye to St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican, and say goodbye to Italy!

April, 2016

You can learn more about the Vatican Museums and the most interesting exhibits in them in the book:

VATICAN

What can you see in one day in the Vatican, what museums to visit, what to pay attention to and how best to prepare for such an excursion? The book is equipped with a large number of photographs, and can serve as a kind of guide to the Vatican Museums, as well as a virtual guide for those who are preparing for such a trip.

Pricebooks 100 rubles

Description of St. Peter's Basilica is a non-trivial task. Until recently, the main Catholic church in the world was the largest Christian religious building. St. Peter's Basilica is located in the possession of the Vatican State in the center of Rome.

History of the construction of St. Peter's Basilica

In the 1st century The Circus of Nero was located in this area. This notorious emperor organized not only performances and competitions there, but also demonstrative executions of the first Christians. In 67, the most famous of them, the Apostle Peter, died here. He was crucified in an unusual way - upside down, because he considered himself unworthy to be executed like Christ. The tomb of the apostle became an object of secret worship.

After the victory of Christianity at the beginning of the 4th century. At the behest of Emperor Constantine, a large basilica was built over the grave, in which the main religious and secular ceremonies took place for 5 centuries. The burials of the righteous also took place here, considering it an honor to be able to rest next to the apostle.

In the 9th century. The basilica was plundered by the Saracens, after which they tried to reconstruct it. In 1506, Pope Julius II ordered the construction of a new temple, the like of which had never been seen in the world. Who built St. Peter's Basilica? There is no clear answer to this question. Famous architects took part in the design and construction of the structure, replacing each other.

The first architect, Bramante, designed the church in the form of a symmetrical (Greek) cross. Raphael, who continued the construction, decided to focus on a cross with an elongated side (Latin). The idea of ​​a dominant central dome belongs to Michelangelo, and it was realized by Giacomo della Porta. Carlo Maderna, who completed the construction, erected a massive western façade that hid most of the dome, which ceased to be the dominant feature of the structure. The consecration of the Cathedral took place in 1626.

Architectural solutions

The construction, which lasted more than a century, coincided with the transition from Renaissance ideas to architectural style early baroque. Therefore, features of both of these styles can be found in the architecture of St. Paul's Cathedral.

Main facade

Near the entrance to the Cathedral, on pedestals there are sculptures of the apostles - Peter with a key and Paul with a sword. The monumental façade, 45 m high and 115 wide, is topped with almost 6-meter tall figures of Jesus, 11 (except Peter) apostles and John the Baptist. The cathedral has 5 doors (portals), four of which were built relatively recently - in the 20th century.

The central portal is named Filarete after the Florentine master who created it. This door is the only one preserved from the old basilica of the 15th century. The upper bronze panels of the door depict Christ and the Madonna enthroned. In the middle are the apostles Peter and Paul, and at the bottom are scenes of their martyrdom. On top of the door is a marble bas-relief with the Apostle Peter receiving the keys. Opposite the Filarete portal is the famous Navicella mosaic, laid out by Giotto in the 13th century.

The Holy Portal is used once every quarter of a century. The stonework is being dismantled from the inside on the eve of the anniversary Christmas. At the end of the year, this door is walled up again. The Portal of Death is intended only for removing the body of a deceased pontiff. This door depicts relevant scenes - the death of Joseph, the Holy Sepulcher, the murder of Peter, as well as scenes of the sacrament of Communion. There is also a portal of Good and Evil and a door of Mysteries.

Dome

The height of the dome of St. Peter's Cathedral reaches 138 m from the outside and 119 m from the inside, and the diameter is 42 m. The dome is based on four massive columns. Along its frieze is a mosaic inscription quoting the words of Jesus from the Gospel of Matthew about Peter, the Church and the keys of Kingdom of Heaven. The authors of the 4 Gospels are depicted on the inner surface. Next to Mark, John and Luke are a lion, an eagle and an ox, respectively. These apocalyptic animals, according to Revelation, were seen by John at the throne of God. An angel is drawn next to the Evangelist Matthew leading his hand.

Under Pontiff Clement VIII, the dome of the cathedral was crowned with a cross. Lead caskets with relics were placed on it. From the balcony of the domed turret a memorable Roman panorama opens.

What's inside the Vatican Council

The interior of the Cathedral amazes with its size and splendor. Its length is 211.5 m, and its area is over 22 thousand m 2. 55 thousand people can be inside at the same time. This is more than all other major religious buildings can accommodate. The largest in the world is no exception. new church in Côte d'Ivoire, which in 1990 surpassed the Cathedral in height and area, but not in capacity. On the floor of the central nave there are marks indicating the comparative sizes of other large churches that easily fit inside.

Another 400 thousand people can listen to the Pope on the square of the same name in front of the Cathedral, designed by the great architect and sculptor Giovanni Bernini.

There are always a lot of tourists inside the Cathedral, but its huge size eliminates the bustle. Along its perimeter there are richly decorated chapels with the tombs of Popes and royalty. They were created by outstanding masters. In the first Chapel of Mercy on the right is the famous marble sculpture “Pieta” (Lamentation of Christ), in which the genius of the young Michelangelo was manifested in full force. After being attacked by a vandal, it is displayed behind thick protective glass.

Bernini made a great contribution to the sculptural decoration of the interior. Above the main altar in the center of the Cathedral rises a 29-meter ciborium (canopy) created by him, crowned with statues of angels. It rests on four twisted columns. Their shape is not accidental: it repeats the columnar silhouette of the Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem. Only the pontiff has the right to conduct worship here. From the main altar a staircase leads to the tomb (“Confessional”) of St. Petra.

Nearby there is a bronze figure of a seated St. Petra. Its authorship is attributed to a 13th-century Florentine sculptor. Arnolfo di Cambio. According to other sources, the statue was made back in the 5th century. in Syria. The feet of the sculpture shine from the numerous touches of those who made a wish.

Among the relics kept in the temple are the relics of St. John Chrysostom, and the spear of the Roman centurion Longinus, with which Christ was pierced on the cross. A five-meter statue of this centurion, made by Bernini, stands in a niche of one of the columns. Shocked by the martyrdom and resurrection of the Savior, of which he became an eyewitness, Longinus began to preach Christianity, and was executed for this.

The main nave of the Cathedral ends with an altar projection (apse) with a bronze gilded pulpit, created inXVII century Bernini, and is considered one of the pinnacles of his work. Hidden inside the pulpit is a wooden throne that belonged to the Apostle Peter. According to tradition, the place where the relic is stored should resemble its shape. Therefore, in the center of the pulpit there is a bronze throne with a bas-relief on the theme of the presentation of the keys to the apostle.

On both sides of the throne, Bernini placed 4 figures of the Doctors of the Church. Eastern teachers John Chrysostom and Athanasius the Great stand closer to the throne, and Ambrose of Milan and Aurelius Augustine, with their heads covered with Western mitres, are on the outside. Above the pulpit there is a stained glass window lined with alabaster plates, in the center of which is a dove shining in the sun's rays - a symbol of the Holy Spirit. From a distance it seems small, but its wingspan is about 3 m.

Chair of St. Petra is a symbol of the power of the pontiff. One of the titles of the Pope is “Successor of the Prince of the Apostles.” The account of the Roman pontiffs begins with Peter.

How to get to St. Peter's Basilica

This can be done by several types of public transport:

• take metro line A to Ottaviano station;
• by trolleybus number 19 to the Piazza Risorgimento stop;
• by buses no. 32, 49, 62, 81, 590, 271 until Wednesday Via della Conciliazione.

Opening hours of St. Peter's Basilica- from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in high season and until 6 p.m. in low season. Observation deck closes for 1 hour 15 minutes. earlier. Entrance to the Cathedral is free, but to the site - not. You have to pay 6 EUR for the ascent on foot, and 8 EUR for using the elevator. Only physically fit people who can climb more than 500 steps will be able to save money. Tourists should keep in mind that the last section of increasingly narrower steps is climbed independently in both cases. You have to almost crawl through the very narrow steps that complete the climb.

To minimize queue time, it is recommended to avoid Wednesdays (the day of worship and papal audience) and Sundays. It's better to come before opening or in the afternoon. Tourists who have completed their tour of the Vatican Museums enter the Cathedral without a queue. True, it is difficult for a person to cope with such a huge emotional load.

A visit to St. Peter's Cathedral will be as educational as possible as part of the excursion. For a two-hour excursion you will need to pay 80 EUR.

When visiting, the dress code standard for religious buildings applies. Shoulders, arms and legs must be covered; for women, hair must be covered. Men, on the contrary, must remove their hats. Tourists pass through a turnstile with a metal detector.

Near the Cathedral there is a Vatican post office. From here you can send a postcard with a special stamp confirming dispatch from the Vatican territory.

St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) and a large square surrounded by columns - the religious center of the Vatican (Stato della Città del Vaticano).

The openwork cathedral was built in the 17th century Grandees and Baroque: (Giovanni Lorenzo Bernini), (Michelangelo Buonarroti), Bramante (Donato Bramante), (Raffaello Santi). Since then and to this day, the basilica has been the most significant Catholic church on the planet, annually attracting millions of parishioners to services conducted by the Pope himself.

In the 4th century AD under Emperor Constantine I (lat. Flavius ​​Valerius Aurelius Constantinus), a Romanesque basilica was erected in Rome. The only thing that has survived from early Christian buildings is the monument marking the middle of St. Peter's Square, located in front of the temple.

According to Christian chronicles, the Apostle Peter (Greek: Απόστολος Πέτρος) suffered martyrdom around 64-67 AD. in Rome. The first altar of the first basilica was erected over the tomb of a follower of Christ in 313.

The Basilica of Constantine went through several reconstructions and by the 16th century had become significantly dilapidated. Pontiff Julius II (lat. Iulius II) set Donato Bramante an interesting task - to restore the ancient christian temple and, where possible, maintain its original potential. According to the architect's idea, the updated basilica was supposed to be a large cross topped with a dome.

The spacious building with high vaults was supposed to embody the heavenly lightness of the temple, but the death of Bramante in 1514 postponed the implementation of the project indefinitely.

During Bramante's lifetime, in 1513, Rafael Santi became the second architect of the temple. Fra Giocondo was sent to help the famous master, and he in turn was replaced by Giuliano da Sangallo. The history of the creation of the temple was overshadowed by an amazing fact: during the 6 years of work on the project, three eminent masters died.

Beginning in 1506, St. Peter's Cathedral received only the foundation and partly the lower wall tier, which was later dismantled. Over the course of 40 years, the drawings of the cathedral were transformed on paper, changing the shape of the building from the Greek equilateral cross to the Latin one

and finally settled on the form of the basilica proposed by Antonio da Sangallo. In 1546, da Sangallo dies and Pope Paul III engages Michelangelo to be the curator of the construction of the temple. Taking into account the accumulation of architectural ideas of his predecessors, Buonarroti decides to return to Bramante’s original plan, simplifying and at the same time strengthening the design., the entrance to which was hidden by a portico draped with columns, following the example of ancient temples. Also, according to the tradition of the ancient builders, the central entrance of the temple was located on the eastern side.

During Michelangelo's lifetime, construction progressed significantly, even the drum of the dome was built.

However The genius did not have time to complete his grandiose project, in 1564 death interrupted Buonarroti's work.

Giacomo Della Porta continued work on the cathedral, making his own adjustments to Michelangelo's plan. Elements of the proto-Baroque style appeared, more elongated shapes, which is especially noticeable in the drawings of the dome drum. Buonarroti's ideas were realized in their pure form only during the construction of the western part of the temple.

By 1588, the Porte's affairs, in collaboration with Domenico Fontana, implemented a plan for preparatory work for the construction of the dome of St. Peter's Basilica. In subsequent For 2 years all the efforts of engineers and builders were concentrated on creating the main vault of the temple. Already in May 1590, Pope Sixtus V celebrated a solemn mass in the newly built cathedral.

During the summer months, a colonnade of 36 decorative columns was built, however, Sixtus V did not have time to admire the external decoration of the church, dying in August 1590. A golden lantern in the shape of a ball and a large cross over the dome of the temple were installed already under Clement VIII (lat. Clemente VIII).

The inspiration for the next round of construction of St. Peter's Cathedral was Pope Paul V. In 1605 he called on Carlo Maderno to rework the plan for the cathedral.

Greek cross, in the appearance of the building, embodied by Michelangelo, was converted to Latin, due to the lengthening of the longitudinal part.

Side naves were also added, so the temple turned into a three-nave basilica. Updated the church took on a completely different look from that originally conceived by Michelangelo– today, standing in the center of the square near the obelisk, you will see only part of the dome, and coming closer to the cathedral, you might think that this is a palace, not a church.

Description

St. Peter's Cathedral has impressive parameters: about 211 meters in length and height, including the dome - 132 m, the total area of ​​the temple is 23 thousand m 2.

Such an impressive size of the cathedral allows it to leave its closest competitors far behind. Marks with other sizes Catholic churches painted on the floor so that visitors can appreciate the monumentality of the building.

Facade

The modern facade of the cathedral was completed by the architect Carlo Moderna in the 17th century. The baroque façade covered in travertine has a respectable width of 118 m and a height of 48 m.

Classical columns support an attic topped with 13 statues. A five-meter statue of Christ, surrounded by John the Baptist and 11 apostles, adorns the front of St. Peter's Basilica. The facade of the temple is also decorated with a clock created in the 18th century by Giuseppe Valadier.

Hidden behind the columns of the portico are five gates leading inside. cathedral: Gate of Death (Porta della Morte), Gate of Good and Evil (Porta del Bene del Male), Gate of Filarete (Porta del Filarete), Gate of the Sacraments (Porta dei Sacramenti), Holy Gate (Porta Santa). The most notable of these is the Door of Death, created in the mid-20th century by sculptor Giacomo Manzu. It is through these doors that the Vatican sends last way their pontiffs.

The central portal of the cathedral is decorated with two equestrian statues: Charlemagne, made in the 18th century. Augustino Cornacchini and Emperor Constantine, by Bernini (1670). Another pearl of the temple’s exterior is the Navicella degli Apostoli fresco, painted by Giotto di Bondone, completed in the 13th century.

Interior

St. Peter's Basilica has an impressive interior space, which is divided between three naves. Arched vaults 23 m high and about 13 m wide separate the central nave from the side ones. The gallery, 90 m long and with an area of ​​about 2500 m2, begins at the entrance to the temple and ends at the altar. In the last arch of the central nave there is a miraculous statue of St. Peter, cast in bronze, to which thousands of pilgrims flock.

The Vatican, represented by the cathedral, acquired a repository of the most valuable works of art, from the floor to the tip of the dome. The marble floors of the temple partially preserved elements of the former basilica, reconstructed in the 13th century.

The disk of red Egyptian porphyry on which Charlemagne knelt during his coronation in 800, as well as most of the rulers of Europe until the 15th century, attracts attention.

Many interior decor elements were created with the participation of , who spent 50 years of his creative life decorating the cathedral. One of his significant works is the statue of the Roman centurion Longinus. According to legend, the centurion, suffering greatly poor eyesight, pierced the crucified Christ to ensure the death of the son of God. The blood of Christ fell on Longinus’s eyes and he immediately received his sight.. After some time, Longinus converted to Christianity, actively preached, and is now revered as one of the main Christian saints.

St. Peter's Basilica contains the spearhead of a Roman centurion as one of its relics.

Above the altar of the temple lies another masterpiece of Bernini - an extensive canopy (cevorium), resting on four figured pillars. The canopy was created under Urban VIII; many decorative elements glorify the aristocratic family of the pontiff. The fabulous cost of the master’s work was covered from the treasury of the Burberry family, but bronze and other building materials were shamelessly taken from the Pantheon (Greek: πάνθειον).

To this day there is a saying in Rome: “What the barbarians did not do, Bernini and Barberini did.”

Above the canopy is a pulpit dedicated to St. Peter, also designed by Bernini.

If you walk along the central nave of the cathedral, in the niches you can admire the statues of saints: Teresa, Helena Sophia Barat, St. Vincenzo de Paoli, John, St. Philip Neri, St. John Battista de La Salle, St. John Bosco.

Right nave

Pieta

In the right nave of the temple there is a sculptural group “” (Lamentation of Christ) by the young Michelangelo (1499).

To protect the work of art from the harmful effects of temperature fluctuations, dust, humidity, as well as careless visitors, the statue is covered with a durable glass cover. In 1972, a religious fanatic caused serious damage to the masterpiece with a hammer!

Monument to Pontiff Leo XII

Next to the Pieta there is a monument to Pontiff Leo XII by Giuseppe de Fabris (19th century) and a monument to Christina, Princess of Sweden made by Carl Fontana in the 17th century.

In the Cappella di San Sebastiano you can admire the mosaics made by Pier Paolo Cristofari, based on sketches by Domenichino himself. The vault of the chapel is decorated with a mosaic by Pietro da Cortona.

Tomb of Margravine Matilda of Canossa

A unique monument is the tomb of Margravine Matilda of Canossa, made by Bernini. The aristocrat was the first woman buried in the temple.

Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament

The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament (Cappella del Santissimo Sacramento) is decorated with a decorative grille created from sketches (Francesco Borromini). Inside the chapel there is bronze work by Carlo Moderno, Borromini architecture.

Left nave

Tomb of Alexander VII (lat. Alexander VII)

Bernini's last significant work adorns the tomb of Alexander VII of the Chigi family. The ensemble, made of colored marble and bronze, depicts the pontiff in prayer, surrounded by allegorical statues of Mercy, Truth, Justice and Prudence. In front of Alexander VII is a skeleton wrapped in a red robe - a symbol of death.

In the skeleton's hand there is an hourglass - a metaphor for the end of the pontiff's earthly life.

The baroque ensemble is filled with theatrical drama and full of secret meaning. Thus, one of the virtues is depicted standing on the globe. It is by no means accidental that the stone foot covers England. By the 17th century, the split between Catholic and Anglican Church reached its apogee. British Stuart monarchs renounced their crown in order to remain faithful to the Catholic faith. This whole contradictory situation was artistically played out by Bernini in stone. The Stuart tomb is now located inside the cathedral to the left of the entrance.

Chapel of Epiphany

In the left nave is the Chapel of the Epiphany (Cappella del Battesimo), designed by Carl Fontana and decorated with mosaics by Baciccio. Nearby is the tomb of Maria Clementina Sobieski, decorated by sculptor Pietro Bracci in the 18th century. Adjacent to it is a memorial to the Stuarts, by Atonio Canova (19th century). An interesting work by the 15th century Florentine architect Antonio Pollaiolo is the tomb of Pontiff Innocent VIII.

Center

The central space of the cathedral is limited by four pillars supporting the dome. This part of the temple was realized in accordance with the ideas of Michelangelo. In the very heart of the church you can see many mosaic paintings made according to Domenichino's sketches.

Of particular awe is the memorial to Pius VII, made in the 19th century by a non-Catholic creator, Bertel Thorvaldsen. St. Peter's Basilica has a Gregorian Chapel (Gregoriana Cappella), which reminds us of who gave humanity the Gregorian calendar. The numerous tombs of pontiffs and richly decorated chapels make an indelible impression on parishioners.

Dome

• Metro: line A, stop Ottaviano (closer to museums)
• by tram: No. 19, San Pietro stop 200 meters from the cathedral;
• by bus: No. 23, 32, 81, 590, 982, N11, Risorgimento stop, No. 64 and 40 express routes from (Termini) to St. Peter's Basilica, No. 116, Terminal Gianicolo stop;
• by regional train: Roma San Pietro station (closer to the square), train runs from Roma Trastevere station, ticket 1 euro.

Virgo