{"id":37654,"date":"2024-09-04T16:33:00","date_gmt":"2024-09-04T16:33:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/?p=37654"},"modified":"2025-12-18T18:53:11","modified_gmt":"2025-12-18T18:53:11","slug":"vatican-city-for-free-what-to-see-in-st-peters-square","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/vatican-city-for-free-what-to-see-in-st-peters-square\/","title":{"rendered":"Vatican City for Free: What To See in St. Peter\u2019s Square"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In the heart of Rome, just west of the Tiber River, is Vatican City. A city, yes, but also the smallest country in the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inside Vatican City is St. Peter’s Square, one of the world\u2019s most iconic destinations. It was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century and holds great spiritual and cultural importance for millions of people worldwide. But whether you’re a devout Catholic or simply a curious traveler, St. Peter’s Square offers a number of free attractions and activities that you can experience without ever opening your wallet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Marvel at St. Peter’s Basilica\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Credit: Barry Finnegan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The centerpiece of St. Peter’s Square is St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world. Entrance to the basilica is free, and once inside, you’ll have the opportunity to admire some astonishing pieces of art such as Michelangelo’s Piet\u00e0 and Bernini’s Baldacchino. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Towering above you is the majestic dome designed also by Michelangelo. The basilica also houses a number of chapels, altars, as well as the tombs of various popes. You can easily spend an hour just walking around and checking out everything inside, but the exterior is also worth a look. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to climb the dome, it isn\u2019t free, but here\u2019s a guide on how to climb St. Peter\u2019s dome<\/a> if you\u2019re keen to give it a go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Witness the Papal Audience<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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A post shared by Pope Francis (@franciscus)<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/blockquote>\n