Whether you have ever been to Rome or not, you will be familiar with St Peter’s Basilica. It is arguably one of the world’s most famous churches and it can be found within the Vatican City. The city itself lies not far to the west of Rome and many of its attractions, such as the Trevi Fountain and the Capitoline Museums.

But why are people drawn to the Basilica? Is it because it lies in the enclave known as the Vatican City? Or are there other reasons why St Peter’s Basilica draws the crowds on a regular basis?

One reason has to be its stunning appearance. To say it is huge is to vastly underestimate its size. Some sixty thousand people can be accommodated inside the church at full capacity, which tells us something about the vastness of the interior. But it is also quite beautiful, and you would probably struggle to find the words to describe just how beautiful it is. The detail of every part of the inside of the Basilica is just amazing, and you will feel small and probably insignificant as well when you see it for yourself. That’s how amazing St Peter’s really is.

It is called St Peter’s because it was built on the very spot where St Peter was laid to rest in 64 AD. The site has long had a shrine – even before St Peter died – but over the years it was developed and the original basilica was eventually built. The one we see there today was not built until the early 1500s.

The good news is that you can see the interior of St Peter’s Basilica completely free of charge. The only charge made is the one for going up into the dome. Some choose not to do this but if you have a head for heights you should definitely try it. You’ll be rewarded with the most amazing views of Rome, thanks to the sheer size and height of the dome you will be peering out of.

When you think about it, there is no way you could visit Rome without seeing the Basilica itself.