St Peter's Basilica and Square

The present basilica was built between 1506 and 1626 over the tomb of the Apostle Peter; the dome follows Michelangelo's design. Inside are Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's baldachin; the square is embraced by Bernini's colonnade (1656–1667).

Did you know: Entry to the basilica is free, but there are security checks and shoulders and knees must be covered. Climbing the dome requires a ticket.

✦ The legend: Outside the basilica, at the corner by the sacristy, a sudden wind almost always blows. Roman legend explains it like this: the devil and the wind were walking together; the devil stepped into St Peter's saying “wait here, I'll only be a moment”, and never came out again. The wind, patiently, is waiting for him still.