Saint Peter’s Basilica

Massive Saint Peter's Basilica at the Vatican City

Massive Saint Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican City

I made it a point to include Saint Peter’s Basilica in our itinerary since has always been my dream to be able to visit the Vatican, Saint Peter’s Basilica in particular. I was surprised to know that this not where the seat of the Catholic Church is. That is actually the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran. However, due to its size, Saint Peter’s Basilica is normally the venue for numerous ceremonies. Most recently was the canonization of Pope John Paul II and Pope John XXIII which I happened to miss by a few days. It would have been highly doubtful if my friends would join me in the canonization ceremonies but then again, this is a global event that they might not want to miss out on. There were still large photos of both pope saints displayed outside the facade of basilica.

Looking Towards the Altar at Saint Peter's Basilica at the Vatican City

Looking Towards the Altar at Saint Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican City

The basilica is said to be Renaissance Baroque in architecture. To be honest, I can’t really tell the difference between these styles as I tend to ascribe the more famous works of art that I am aware of like the Pieta to both. Perhaps the timings overlap and one was influencing the other as well but I’d rather not dwell on that. The basilica is probably one of the best places to have a wedding march. It is quite long and it would take a while for anyone to get to the altar. It seems that it is possible get married at the basilica but I doubt if it can happen very often as most of the time is it open to tourists. Then again, you might want to have the whole world join in your happiness during your special day.

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