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Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli: Michelangelo's Moses and St. Peter's Chains

Discover Michelangelo's Moses and the sacred chains of St. Peter in this historic Rome basilica. A blend of art, history, and religious significance.

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The Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli (Saint Peter in Chains) is a Roman Catholic church dating back to the 5th century, famed for housing the chains that bound St. Peter in Jerusalem and Michelangelo's impressive sculpture of Moses. A visit offers a unique blend of religious significance and artistic brilliance.

A brief summary to Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli

  • Piazza di San Pietro in Vincoli, 4/a, Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, 00184, IT
  • Visit website
  • Monday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or an hour before closing to avoid crowds.
  • Dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered to enter the church.
  • Photography is allowed inside the basilica.
  • Don't miss the reliquary under the main altar, which houses the chains of Saint Peter.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli is located a short walk from the Colosseum. From the Colosseum, walk approximately 5-7 minutes to reach the basilica. Head northwest on Via Nicola Salvi toward Largo Salara Vecchia, turn left onto Via Cavour, and then turn right onto Piazza di San Pietro in Vincoli. The basilica will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    The Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli is accessible via Rome's Metro and bus lines. Take Metro line B to the Cavour station, which is a 5-minute walk from the basilica. Alternatively, several bus lines stop near the basilica, including 51, 71, 75, and 117. Get off at the Cavour/Annibaldi or Serpenti/Cavour bus stop, each a 2-minute walk to the basilica. A single metro or bus ticket costs €1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Rome. A taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Piazza Venezia) to the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli typically costs between €10-€15, depending on traffic. Be sure the meter is running or agree on a fare before starting your trip.

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Discover more about Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli

Nestled in the heart of Rome, the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli, also known as Basilica Eudoxiana, is a captivating minor basilica with both artistic and religious importance. Constructed in the 5th century under Empress Eudoxia to house the chains that bound Saint Peter, the basilica has undergone several restorations, most notably in the 15th century. The basilica's unassuming exterior belies the treasures within. Inside, visitors can marvel at the Doric columns and coffered ceiling adorned with a fresco of the 'Miracle of the Chains'. The main draw is Michelangelo's Moses, a powerful sculpture intended for Pope Julius II's tomb. The statue portrays Moses with horns, a common symbol in Renaissance art representing 'the radiance of the Lord'. Flanking Moses are statues of Leah and Rachel, likely completed by Michelangelo's students. Beneath the main altar lies the reliquary, which holds the chains of Saint Peter. Legend says that these are the chains used to imprison him in Jerusalem and Rome, miraculously fused together when reunited. Other notable artworks include the Byzantine mosaic of St. Sebastian, the monument to the Pollaiuolo brothers, and the tomb of Cardinal da Cusa. The basilica's history is as compelling as its art. Empress Eudoxia commissioned the church in the 5th century to house the relics of St. Peter's chains. Over the centuries, it has been rebuilt and restored, with significant contributions from various artists and patrons. The basilica stands as a testament to faith, art, and the enduring legacy of St. Peter.

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