Official Website & Resources

Official Vatican links and resources for planning your visit

Official Vatican Resources

For the most up-to-date and authoritative information about St. Peter's Basilica, refer to the official Vatican resources below.

Official Websites

    • Vatican Official Website: www.vatican.va — The official website of the Holy See with news, documents, and information about Vatican City.
    • St. Peter's Basilica: www.basilicasanpietro.va — The dedicated official website for the Papal Basilica of St. Peter with visiting information, history, and virtual tours.

Booking Official Tours

    • Scavi/Necropolis Tours: Email scavi@fsp.va to book the excavations tour beneath the basilica. Include your preferred dates, group size, and language. Book at least 2-3 months in advance.
    • Vatican Museums: www.museivaticani.va — For booking Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel tickets.

What You Can Find on Official Sites

The official websites provide current opening hours, closure notices for special events, Papal audience schedules, Mass times, live streaming of Vatican events, virtual tours of the basilica, and detailed historical and architectural information. Always check the official sites before your visit for any last-minute changes to schedules or access.

Official Resources FAQ

Questions about official information and booking

Can I book basilica entry tickets on the official website?
Entry to St. Peter's Basilica is free and does not require a ticket or reservation. You simply queue at the entrance and pass through security. Only the dome climb, Treasury Museum, and Scavi tour require tickets or bookings.
How do I check for closures or schedule changes?
Check the official Vatican website (vatican.va) and the basilica website (basilicasanpietro.va) before your visit. The Vatican Press Office also publishes Papal schedules and event calendars. Wednesday morning Papal audiences are the most common reason for temporary closures.
Is there a virtual tour available?
Yes, the official basilica website offers a virtual tour that allows you to explore the interior of St. Peter's Basilica from your computer or mobile device. The Vatican Museums website also offers virtual tours of the Sistine Chapel and other Vatican sites.

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