St. Peter's Basilica

The Basilica of Saint Peter ranks second among the four major basilicas (St. John Lateran, St. Peter's, Saint Maria Maggiore (Major's), and St. Paul outside the Walls)--four essential stops for all serious pilgrims. Possibly the largest church in Christianity, it covers an area of 5.7 acres and has a capacity of over 60,000 people. It is the burial site of Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, first Bishop of Antioch, and later first Bishop of Rome. Construction on the current basilica began on April 18, 1506 and was completed in 1626.

Directly to the east of the church is St. Peter's Square (Piazza di San Pietro). In the center of the square is a 83.6 ft tall obelisk which dates back to the 13th century BC in Egypt, and was moved to Rome in 37 to stand in the Circus of Nero some 820 ft. away. Including the based and cross on top it reaches 131 ft. high.

The dome of the basilica rises 394 feet above the floor. Above the dome is mounted a two-stage lantern capped with a ball and cross.

Many masterpieces of Renaissance art are displayed inside the basilica, works by Michelangelo (especially the Pieta), Raphael, Bernini, and many others.

FOR MORE INFORMATION SEE: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Peter's_Basilica