The Dome of Saint Peter’s Basilica
Perhaps the most beautiful dome in the world. A bold claim, but remember who it was designed by; none other than the master, Michelangelo Buonarroti. The dome was completed in 1593 which was around 30 years after Michelangelo’s death in 1564.
The dome was completed in a bit less than two years according to the Official website of Saint Peter’s. More than 800 workers were involved in the project. Architect Giacomo della Porta oversaw the project of completing the dome.
A view up into the dome with a partial view of Bernini’s Baldacchino below.
The inscription circling the lantern at the apex of the interior was a tribute to Pope Sixtus V who worked diligently on completing the work only to die a few years before completion of the dome. It reads, S. PETRI GLORIAE SIXTVS PP. V. A. MDXC PONTIFF. V , which translates into, “To the glory of Saint Peter, Pope Sixtus V, in the year 1590, the fifth of his Pontificate. “
The inscription placed by Pope Clement VIII honoring, Pope Sixtus V who worked diligently on the completion of the Basilica
On the bottom ring in the blue letters are written, “ TV ES PETRVS ET SVPER HANC PETRAM AEDIFICABO ECCLESIAM MEAM ET TIBI DABO CLAVES REGNI CAELORVM” this translates to, You are Peter and on this rock I will build my church and give you the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven. “
The lettering on the bottom circle of the dome.
Visitors are able to purchase a ticket to the dome walk.
The dome is divided into 16 wedges rising on the four pillars. It makes for a beautiful and inspiring sight. To the observer it projects power and commands respect. I would be perfectly happy to stand under it and look at the different aspects and nuances of the dome, but I would also buy a special ticket to walk up to the top.
If you look carefully at the upper part of the exterior of the dome, you can see the people that bought tickets to the dome walk. My knee was swollen from a fall, and I didn’t feel I could make it to the top. You can ride an elevator halfway, but a long climb is also required.
A view of the magnificent dome from the courtyard.
Thank you for walking around the Dome of Saint Peter with me.