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Places (POIs) visited during this tour

Place #1
Distance: 1.39mi , Attraction : Famous Square (Selfie spot)
Map Pin
WF24+VWR, Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
POI 1 Tour Image
St. Peter's Square
Hey,
You found me.

Welcome to St. Peter’s Square, or, Piazza San Pietro, the heart of Catholicism and the perfect place to begin our Jubilee pilgrimage.

This vast square was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century to embrace visitors in what he called “the maternal arms of Mother Church.”
Notice how the grand colonnades curve outward, symbolizing that all are welcome here – a powerful message for pilgrims arriving for the Holy Year.

This iconic square serves as the grand entrance to St. Peter's Basilica and is a central gathering place for pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
Even more so during the Jubilee.
Pilgrims from across the world flock here to pass through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica, seeking spiritual renewal, indulgence, and a deepened connection with God.

Admire the impressive colonnades surrounding us, formed by 284 Doric columns and 88 pilasters, which create a sense of enclosure and embrace.

Look up and around us, atop the tall colonnades. The the statues?
These are saints, adding to the square's majestic atmosphere.

Can you guess how many of these statues surround us?


No less than 140 statues!


In the center of the square stands an ancient Egyptian obelisk, brought to Rome by Emperor Caligula in the 1st century AD, and brought here in 1586 under Pope Sixtus V.
It has stood witness to countless historic moments and reminds us that the Church stands firm and unchanging through the ages.

Two fountains, designed by Bernini and Carlo Maderno, flank the obelisk, providing a refreshing visual and auditory element.
And, as you'll learn along the tour, almost every major landmark in Rome includes a fountain.
Yes, Romans love water.


Now look towards the Basilica.

That magnificent façade and Michelangelo’s great dome beyond, mark the burial site of Saint Peter himself, the first Pope and one of Jesus’ closest apostles. Another reason why this site holds such unmatched spiritual importance for Catholics worldwide.

As you stand here among the faithful, take a moment to reflect on your journey.
Why have you come? What are you hoping to leave behind, and what blessings do you wish to receive?

When you are ready, we will continue our pilgrimage towards the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica.

We'll meet at footsteps of the St. Peter's Basilica.

Read More

  https://www.vatican.va/various/basiliche/san_pietro/index_it.htm
Place #2
Distance: 0.00mi , Attraction : Church (Selfie spot)
Map Pin
WF24+VG Vatican City
POI 2 Tour Image
St. Peter's Basilica
Step inside St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and one of the holiest sites in Christendom.

This magnificent basilica stands on the site where St. Peter, one of Jesus's apostles and the first Pope, is believed to be buried.

Tradition tells us that this grand basilica is built directly above the burial site of Saint Peter, the same apostle whom Jesus called the Rock upon which His Church would be built.
After his martyrdom in Nero’s Circus nearby, Peter was buried here, and early Christians honored his grave.
Over time, his simple tomb became a place of pilgrimage.


Over centuries, the original basilica was replaced by the current structure, which involved the contributions of renowned artists and architects such as Bramante, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini.

The first basilica was constructed by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century.
However, by the Renaissance, it was in ruins, and so began the construction of the basilica you see today, spanning over a century from 1506 to 1626.

Look up at the magnificent dome, designed by Michelangelo when he was in his seventies.
It remains one of the largest domes in the world and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, visible across Rome as a symbol of faith reaching towards heaven.

Did you know that the letters running along the base of the dome are each over 2 meters tall? They reed: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church… I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.”


As pilgrims, this place holds special meaning, especially during the Jubilee.
One of the most sacred rituals is to pass through the Holy Door, which is opened only during a Jubilee year and stays open throughout that year.
Doing so symbolizes leaving behind sin and walking into the grace and mercy of God.
Pilgrims crossing the threshold with true repentance receive the Jubilee indulgence.

Inside, take note of Bernini’s Baldachin, the bronze canopy that marks Peter’s tomb below.
It stands nearly 30 meters tall, resembling an eternal altar over his remains.

Just beneath lies the Confession, where you can descend to pray closer to his resting place.

To your right upon entering is Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was only 24, depicting the Virgin Mary cradling the body of Jesus.
Notice Mary’s serene acceptance as she cradles Jesus’ lifeless body – a powerful image of sorrow and faith.

If possible, ascend to the dome, designed by Michelangelo, for panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome.

Interesting fact: The basilica can hold approximately 60,000 people!
That's more than most football stadiums.


During Jubilee years, millions gather here to confess, pray, and celebrate Masses led by the Pope. It is an experience of unity and forgiveness that many describe as, life-changing.

As you explore this breathtaking basilica, take time to reflect upon your own spiritual journey.

When you are ready, we will continue onward through the holy streets of Rome, enriched by the prayers and faith of countless pilgrims who walked this path before us.

With our backs to the Basilica, let's exit St. Peter's square on the far right side. You can follow the route on our map.

Read More

  https://www.vatican.va/various/basiliche/san_pietro/index_it.htm
Tour itinerary stops | Additional places you'll see on this self-guided tour

Map Pin Place 1 St. Peter's Square
Map Pin Place 2 St. Peter's Basilica
Map Pin Place 3 Santo Spirito in Sassia
Map Pin Place 4 Passetto di Borgo View Point
Map Pin Place 5 Castel Sant'Angelo
Map Pin Place 6 Chiesa Nuova di Santa Maria in Vallicella
Map Pin Place 7 Sant'Agnese in Agone
Map Pin Place 8 Piazza Navona
Map Pin Place 9 Pantheon
Map Pin Place 10 Santa Maria sopra Minerva
Map Pin Place 11 Chiesa del Gesù
Map Pin Place 12 Santa Maria Maggiore



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How to take a UCPlaces tour
Taking a UCPlaces tour is fun and easy.
Download the app (Android or iOS), purchase the tour (either here on the website, or from within the app).
That's it, you're ready to go!
When you want to start the tour, find the tour in the app (via a quick in-app search or by clicking the tour link received in your confirmation email) and click "Start Tour" (headphones recommended for best experience.)
* After purchasing a tour you will receive a purchase confirmation email including the tour link and instructions on how to take the tour, so you don't have to remember anything now.
How does the tour work?
UCPlaces acts as your personal tour guide, providing self-guided audio tours fully navigated within our app using GPS-based navigation. You won't need to switch between external navigation apps.
Whenever you approach a point of interest (POI) on the tour, our app will automatically play the relevant audio story at the right time and place.
If you start the tour before reaching the first POI, the app will navigate you to the starting point and then begin the tour.
How is this more convenient than a traditional tour?
UCPlaces offers an innovative and flexible way to explore exciting destinations on your terms.
Here are some key advantages over traditional tours:
  • No need to commit upfront or purchase in advance; buy a tour only when you're ready to go.
  • Walk at your own pace.
  • No waiting for groups; go on your schedule.
  • Take the tour in your preferred language.
  • Start, stop and continue the tour whenever you want.
  • Returning to the same destination? Take the tour again, and again, and again... And bring a friend!
  • Enjoy preferred prices.

What's included?
  • A self-guided audio tour taken via the UCPlaces app [Android / iOS (iPhone) / Apple CarPlay].
  • Tour route map and in-app GPS navigation (via the UCPlaces app).
  • Audio stories for places visited during the tour.
  • Apple CarPlay connection (for iOS users); for a seamless driving tour experience.
What's NOT included?
  • Earphones (highly recommended).
  • Smartphone.
  • Any kind of transportation (including tickets and passes).
  • Tickets to the attractions on your tour.
  • Food and drinks
  • Physical tour guide.

Have any questions about this tour? Or a general travel / self-guided tours question? That's completely natural

+ How long does this tour take?
Most travelers complete this tour in approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on pace, time spent at each stop, and optional detours. Having said that, please remember that self-guided tours are extremly flexible (you can start, pause, continue anytime) and everyone has their own pace.
+ What does this tour include?
This self-guided walking tour includes 12 stops, covering top attractions such as St. Peter's Square, St. Peter's Basilica, Santo Spirito in Sassia, Passetto di Borgo View Point, Castel Sant'Angelo.
+ Where does the tour start?
The tour starts at St. Peter's Square (Address: WF24+VWR, Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City). You can begin the tour there or join from any stop along the route.
+ What type of tour is this?
This is a self-guided walking tour designed to be completed on foot through walkable areas and city highlights.
+ Can I do this tour at my own pace?
Yes, this is a self-guided walking tour, so you can start anytime and explore at your own pace. You can pause, skip stops, or spend more time at places that interest you. You can even split it into multiple days. Explore however feels right for you.
+ Is this a walkable tour?
Yes, this tour is fully walkable and designed to follow a comfortable route through pedestrian-friendly areas.
+ Do I need anything in order to take the tour?
There is one thing that you need - A mobile phone (with the UCPlaces app installed and active location services, and a cellular data plan with a decent signal for downloading the tour) and comfortable walking shoes! But here are some recommendations for a great experience: 1. Make sure your phone is fully charged and bring a mobile charger/battery. 2. Bring earphones for the best experience. 3. Bring a bottle of water and dress appropriately according to the weather forecast.
+ How will I navigate from point to point during the tour?
The tour uses GPS-based navigation through the UCPlaces app, with automatic audio playback and step-by-step directions between stops. Just follow the route (cross streets carefully using crosswalks) and listen to the audio guide. Use the resume feature to continue the from where you recently stopped (or closed the app). Easily skip or go back to stops.
+ Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Yes, self-guided tours are ideal for families and small groups, allowing everyone to explore comfortably without being tied to a fixed schedule.
+ What makes a self-guided tour better than a guided tour?
Self-guided tours are more flexible, affordable, and personalized. You can avoid crowds, choose your pace, and focus on the stops that interest you most.
+ I installed the app and it's now asking for GPS and media access permissions, why?
The app is your tour-guide, it needs to know where you are located on the map to be able to trigger the points of interest. It also needs access to audio and media files to provide you with this experience.
+ What happens if there are unexpected roadblocks or navigation issues?
We have been working hard to deliver a great experience. Though you may run into unexpected obstacles (the world is constantly changing), our app has multiple features and mechanisms in place to help you overcome them, including: AI assistance, force play an audio if you can't reach the stop, skip or return to stops, automatic rerouting and more.
+ Can I take the tour in my language?
Though all of our tours are primarily in English, many tours are muyltilingual (including: Spanish, German, Portuguese, French, Japanese, Hebrew, French, Arabic and more...). The tour language options depend on the specific tour - You can easily check which languages are available in the tour screen!