St. Peter's Basilica in Rome (Italy)
In the 4th century AD over the alleged burial place of the apostle Peter decided to build a basilica - a special building for worship. Many times it rebuilt and expanded, but only in the 16th century, thanks to Pope Julius II, at this place was built a huge cathedral. He had to beat all the pagan and Christian temples in the world. Thus began the history of the greatest cathedral in the world - St. Peter's Basilica.
The height of this grand structure - 132 m., An area of over 22,000 square meters. m., and the length of about 187 m. Inside it can fit several large European cathedrals, even for this there are special marks on the floor. The cathedral was designed and altered by such famous architects in Italy as Michelangelo, Bernini, Santee Kornakchini, Giacomo della Porta and Giacomo da Vignola and others.
Architecture Cathedral impresses with its splendor. The huge dome of the great works of Michelangelo, built on the basis of (by the way, in those days, similar structures erected on octagonal drums). Master niches decorate it with large windows and pillars. By the very dome can be reached by stairs and an elevator, as well as to climb to its top. Front of the cathedral there is a huge area, created by Giovanni Bernini, for everyone to see the Pope and receive his blessing. This gigantism is not accidental - at the time of world politics in the Vatican to administer it. The main entrance is guarded by statues of Saints Peter and Paul, holding the keys to the kingdom of heaven, and on the door of the XV century depict religious scenes and reliefs. Above the entrance attracts fresco, executed in mosaic technique.
Inside the cathedral for centuries adorned the talented and famous masters. The walls and floors are covered with mosaics, and on the floor of the cathedral cannot be overlooked designated circle. It was here in the year 800 was crowned Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne. In the heart of the cathedral built an altar to the ever-burning lamps. Next to him, the figure of St. Peter - a place of worship of the faithful. It is believed if touch his feet and asked to perform a desired, it must be true. Serve here mass should only be Pope.
Throughout the chapels of the
cathedral stretches a lot, which holds works of art and Christian relics. There
are tombs of bishops and emperors.
St. Peter's Basilica, you can
explore on your own. It is also recommended to hire a Russian-speaking guide
and listening to his stories, enjoying the splendor and uniqueness of the
place. After all, the cathedral is not only the temple, but also a museum.
