St. Peter’s Square, also known as Piazza San Pietro, is the world’s largest and most splendid and breathtaking piazza. Designed by Bernini with the support of Pope Alexander XII during the 17th century, it houses about 300,000 people. Having great religious significance, St. Peter’s Square is an architectural marvel and is visited by many pilgrims.
What to see at St. Peter’s Square?
St. Peter Square is known to be erected on the land where St. Peter, one of the 12 chief apostles of Jesus Christ, died. St. Peter is also considered to be the first pope, and due to this fact, this place holds a lot of historical and Religious significance. Both the St. Peter Basilica and St. Peter Square were named after the holy pope, Peter. As such an important landmark, this plaza hosts an array of religious and cultural events all year round.
In addition to its magnificent size, it has 284 columns and 88 pilasters, which form an arcade with four rows— its most remarkable feature. 140 statues of saints above the columns were created in 1670 by the disciples of Bernini. The obelisk, along with two fountains, one by Bernini (1675) and the other by Maderno (1614), stands out in the middle of St. Peter’s Square, Rome. The obelisk is 25 meters tall and was transported from Egypt to Rome in 1586.
Opening hours of St. Peter’s Square
St.Peter’s Square is open throughout the year, but its opening hours change according to the season. In winter, from 1 October to 31 March, it opens at 7 am and closes at 7 pm. In summer, from 1 April to 30 September, it opens at 7 am and closes at 6.30 pm.
Best time to visit St. Peter’s Square
The ideal time of day to visit St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City is early morning, between 7 am and 9 am, because there will be fewer crowds at this hour. If you can’t make it early morning, the next best time to visit this Vatican attraction is 4 pm. The square experiences the fewest crowds in November and between January and March, making this the best time to visit St. Peter Square.
How to reach St. Peter’s Square?
St. Peter’s Square is located in Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City. It is right in front of St. Peter’s Basilica. Get Directions. There are no restrictions on public transportation in and out of Vatican City, so it’s the easiest way to reach the attraction.
By Metro
The nearest metro station to the Vatican City is Ottaviano–San Pietro–Musei Vaticani. You can reach this stop by taking one of the frequent Line A Metro trains. After exiting the Metro Station, a 10-minute walk will get you to St Peter’s Square.
By Train
St Pietro is the nearest train station to St Peter’s Square. You can reach the square from the train station, which is a 12-minute walk.
By Bus
Bus numbers 64, 62, 40, and 81 can take you to St. Peter’s Square. Bus no. 64 is the most used line, connecting Termini station with Vatican City.