The Jewel of the Roman Renaissance: A St Peter’s Basilica Audio Guide

One of the world’s most recognisable churches, St Peter’s Basilica is a jewel in Rome’s Renaissance crown.

On this walking tour, you’ll discover the rich history of the basilica, starting with its architecture and ending with one of its best-known features, the sculpted bronze Baldacchino Canopy, designed by master sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. From outside on St Peter’s Square, I’ll point out awe-inspiring architectural features like Bernini’s massive colonnade, and an imposing staircase framed by St Peter and Paul statues. You’ll learn about the basilica’s five doors and have a choice of entering through the Door of Death, the Door of Sacraments or the main door, which is the oldest of the five and was commissioned by Pope Eugene IV in the 1400s.

As you explore St Peter’s Basilica’s interior, you’ll see examples of the finest craftsmanship by the likes of Michelangelo and the renowned architect Carlo Maderno. I’ll show you how the magnificent Renaissance and Baroque elements they created blend harmoniously, creating a visual feast for the senses. Don’t be intimidated by the sheer size of the interior, with its vast nave and soaring dome. I’ll guide you, showing you where to look and sharing the history of its ornate marble sculptures, elaborate mosaics, and incredible artworks.

On this tour of the basilica, you’ll have a chance to:

• Take in Michelangelo’s Pietà, the unmistakable sculpture depicting the Virgin Mary cradling the lifeless body of Jesus
• See the Chapel of St Sebastian, the Clementine Chapel, and the ornately decorated Chapel of St Gregory
• Pay your respects in the same place where thousands of pilgrims from across the world have journeyed to show their devotion
• Gaze upon the wonderfully carved choir benches in the Chapel of the Choir
• Find out about Michelangelo, Bernini, and Raphael’s contributions to this great and sacred space

Along the way, I’ll shed light on the symbolism behind what you see and answer questions like:

• Why does Michelangelo’s Mary look almost like a teenager, and why was this the only work of art he ever signed?
• What great relics do the statues around the altar guard?
• Where is St Peter actually buried and was this throne really his?
• Why is the allegory representing ‘Truth’ in the monument to Alexander VII squashing England with her foot?

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to the iconic St. Peter’s Basilica promises an unforgettable experience that’ll last a lifetime. Whatever brings you here, this 90-minute tour will provide a valuable introduction to its history, symbolic artwork, and some of its little mysteries.