St. Peter’s Dome
Together with that seen from the Gianicolo, the view from the dome of Saint Peter’s is one of the most spectacular sights of Rome. It is also probably the only view you will be able to get of the Vatican Gardens, a visit to which has to be reserved in advance.
As can be seen below, there is only a 50 cent price difference between walking and taking the elevator up. Please note that the elevator does not take you all the way up: the last part you will have to walk and the stairs are narrow, steep and many.
| What | St. Peter’s Cupola |
| When | Always |
| Hours | Apr-Sept: 8am-6pm (winter: 8am-5pm) |
| Closed | Never |
| Address | Piazza San Pietro |
| Transport | Metro A to Ottaviano, bus 64 or 40E from Rome Termini |
| Price | 3,50€ to climb, 4€ to take the lift |
| Phone | 0669881662 |
Contrary to what most people think, the Dome (or cupola) of Saint Peter’s Basilica was not designed by Michelangelo, but by Giacomo della Porta (assisted by Domenico Fontana). By Michelangelo’s death in 1564 only the drum on which the dome rests had been completed. Della Porta vaulted the dome itself between 1585 and 1590. Fontana built the lantern in 1591 and the ball was placed in 1593.
The brick dome is 42 metres in interior diameter and rises 120 metres above the floor. In the 18th century, when cracks appeared in the dome, four iron chains were installed between the two shells in order to bind it. The - egg-shaped- dome is supported by 4 piers that are each 18 metres across.