St. Peter’s Basilica is a church located in the Vatican City. It is the principal church of the Catholic world and one of the holiest sites in Christendom. The basilica is renowned for its Renaissance art and architecture, as well as for its association with the apostles Peter and Paul.
Saint Peter’s Basilica is situated on Vatican Hill, overlooking St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican City. The basilica is considered to be one of the holiest sites in Christendom, and it is the burial site of Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. The church is also the home of the Papal Basilica Choir, one of the oldest and most prestigious choirs in the world.
The basilica was constructed between the years 1450 and 1626, and it is one of the largest churches in the world, with a capacity of over 60,000 people. The interior of the church is lavishly decorated with marble, mosaics, and sculptures. The most famous work of art inside the basilica is Michelangelo’s Pietà, which is located in the first chapel to the left of the main altar.
Saint Peter’s Basilica also houses other famous artworks, including:
- The Last Judgement, a painting by Michelangelo located in the Sistine Chapel
- The Transfiguration, a painting by Raphael located in the Vatican Museums
- The Laocoön Group, a sculptural group located in the Vatican Museums
