The Majestic St. Peter Square Obelisk: A Historical Marvel
Discover the iconic St. Peter Square Obelisk in Vatican City, a historical landmark that symbolizes faith and history in the heart of Catholicism.
St. Peter Square Obelisk, a historical landmark in Vatican City, captivates visitors with its monumental presence and rich history. Standing tall at the heart of St. Peter's Square, this ancient obelisk not only serves as a stunning visual centerpiece but also as a significant symbol of the Catholic Church. As you stroll around, take in the intricate architectural details of the surrounding basilica and the serene atmosphere, making it a must-visit for any traveler.
A brief summary to St. Peter Square Obelisk
- Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City, 00120, VA
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Don’t forget to look up at the intricate details of the obelisk, including the cross at the top.
- Take a moment to sit on the steps around the square and soak in the atmosphere.
- Check the schedule for special events or papal audiences that may be happening during your visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of St. Peter's Basilica from various angles.
Getting There
-
Walking
From Vatican Radio, exit the building and head south on Via della Conciliazione. Continue walking straight for about 500 meters until you reach the entrance of St. Peter's Square (Piazza San Pietro). Once you enter the square, the St. Peter Square Obelisk will be directly in front of you, located in the center of the square.
-
Public Transportation - Bus
From Vatican Radio, walk to the nearest bus stop, which is located on Via della Conciliazione. Look for bus line 23 or 81. Board the bus and travel for just one stop to the 'Piazza San Pietro' stop. Once you get off the bus, walk a short distance into St. Peter's Square, where the Obelisk is located in the center.
-
Taxi
You can also take a taxi from Vatican Radio to St. Peter's Square. Simply hail a taxi outside of your location and instruct the driver to take you to 'Piazza San Pietro'. The drive should take around 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Be aware that taxi fares can vary, so it's advisable to ask for an estimated price before getting in.
-
Car (Parking)
If you are driving, you can park your car at the nearest parking facility outside the Vatican City. One option is the 'Piazza Cavour' parking garage. After parking, you can walk to Vatican City, which is approximately a 15-minute walk. Follow the signs towards 'Piazza San Pietro' and you will find the St. Peter Square Obelisk upon entering the square.
Discover more about St. Peter Square Obelisk
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Piazza Papa Pio XII
0.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Piazza Papa Pio XII, a tranquil square in Rome near the Vatican, perfect for relaxation and stunning photography.
Largo del Colonnato
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Largo del Colonnato, a charming square near St. Peter's Basilica, perfect for relaxation and stunning photography.
Tourist Information Office
0.1 km
Discover the Tourist Information Office in Vatican City for maps, guides, and unique souvenirs to enhance your travel experience.
Porta San Pellegrino
0.1 km
Discover Porta San Pellegrino, a historic gateway in Vatican City showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Piazza della Città Leonina, 1
0.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Piazza della Città Leonina, a hidden gem in Rome offering rich history, stunning architecture, and peaceful charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Saint Peter's Square
0.0 km
Experience the grandeur of Saint Peter's Square, a breathtaking plaza that welcomes millions to the heart of Vatican City, rich in history and spirituality.
Piazza San Pietro
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance of Piazza San Pietro, an iconic town square in the heart of Vatican City.
Bernini Fountain
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Bernini Fountain in Vatican City, a masterpiece of Baroque art and a must-see tourist attraction in Piazza San Pietro.
Maderno Fountain
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Maderno Fountain in Vatican City, a stunning blend of history and art that captivates every visitor.
Fontana delle Tiare
0.1 km
Discover the stunning Fontana delle Tiare in Vatican City, a beautiful fountain blending artistry, history, and tranquility.
Piazza della Città Leonina
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Piazza della Città Leonina, a stunning town square in Rome, rich in history and vibrant atmosphere.
Cappella Niccolina
0.2 km
Explore the exquisite beauty of Cappella Niccolina, a hidden chapel in Vatican City, rich in Renaissance art and history.
Apostolic Palace
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Apostolic Palace in Vatican City, a historical landmark filled with art, culture, and spiritual heritage.
Church of St. Monica of the Augustinians
0.2 km
Explore the serene Church of St. Monica in Rome, a hidden gem of tranquility, artistry, and rich Augustinian heritage.
Chiesa di Sant'Anna dei Palafrenieri
0.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Chiesa di Sant'Anna dei Palafrenieri in Vatican City, a peaceful retreat for reflection and exploration.
Collection of Contemporary Art
0.2 km
Discover modern artistic expressions at the Collection of Contemporary Art in Vatican City, a unique blend of history and contemporary creativity.
The Madonna della Pietà
0.2 km
Discover the emotional beauty of The Madonna della Pietà, Michelangelo's iconic sculpture in Vatican City, a masterpiece that transcends time.
Church of Our Lady of Mercy in the German Cemetery
0.2 km
Explore the tranquil Church of Our Lady of Mercy in Rome's German Cemetery, a hidden gem of history and architecture.
Palace of the Belvedere
0.2 km
Explore the Palace of the Belvedere in Vatican City - a Renaissance gem filled with art, history, and breathtaking architecture.
Chiesa di Sant'Egidio a Borgo
0.2 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Chiesa di Sant'Egidio, a hidden gem in Vatican City perfect for quiet reflection.
Essential places to dine
Il Colonnato Srl
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Il Colonnato Srl – where tradition meets convenience in the heart of Rome.
Ristorante Trattoria Da Marcella
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Trattoria Da Marcella, just steps away from Vatican City.
Borgo Nuovo
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Borgo Nuovo, where delicious pizza meets vibrant Roman culture just steps from the Vatican.
BorgoPio92 Bistrò Caffè
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at BorgoPio92 Bistrò Caffè near Vatican City—delicious meals, cozy ambiance, and delightful treats await!
Cibofficina
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Cibofficina, where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes in a charming Roman setting.
Ristorante Da Marcello
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Da Marcello in Rome—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Scialla The Original Street Food
0.2 km
Experience authentic Roman street food at Scialla - where traditional flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere just steps from Vatican City.
EGG Pasta Fresca
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at EGG Pasta Fresca - fresh pasta and fast food in the heart of Rome.
Ristorante Krugh
0.2 km
Experience authentic Roman flavors at Ristorante Krugh, where traditional dishes meet warm hospitality in the heart of Rome.
Satiricus Ristorante Pizzeria
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Satiricus Ristorante Pizzeria - a must-visit dining destination in the heart of Rome.
Ristorante Arlù
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Arlù near Vatican City—where every meal is a taste of tradition.
Feffo Caffe
0.3 km
Discover the essence of Italian cuisine at Feffo Caffe, where every meal is an experience steeped in flavor and warmth.
Halal Vatican Food
0.3 km
Discover delicious halal cuisine at Halal Vatican Food, perfectly located near the historic Vatican City in Rome.
Homebaked Porta Cavalleggeri
0.3 km
Discover the flavors of American breakfast at Homebaked Porta Cavalleggeri in Rome – where every meal feels like a warm hug.
Divine Bontà
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Divine Bontà in Rome - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Emporio Vaticano
0.1 km
Discover a spiritual haven at Emporio Vaticano, offering exquisite religious goods and a unique shopping experience in the heart of Rome.
Mondo Cattolico
0.1 km
Explore Mondo Cattolico for unique religious artifacts and souvenirs in the heart of Vatican City, a must-visit for every traveler.
Roma Eterna S.R.L.
0.1 km
Explore Roma Eterna S.R.L., a serene religious goods store in Rome, offering unique spiritual items and a glimpse into Italy's rich religious heritage.
St. Peter's Gallery
0.1 km
Explore St. Peter's Gallery for unique souvenirs and authentic Italian coffee, right in the heart of Vatican City.
Savelli Religious (Savelli Art and Tradition)
0.1 km
Explore Savelli Religious in Rome for unique religious artifacts, exquisite jewelry, and thoughtful gifts that capture the essence of Italian spirituality.
Vatican Souvenir (S.R.L.)
0.2 km
Discover unique religious souvenirs at Vatican Souvenir, a charming store near the Vatican in Rome offering a variety of authentic items.
Arte Religiosa S.R.L.
0.2 km
Explore Arte Religiosa S.R.L. in Rome for unique religious artifacts, souvenirs, and a deep connection to the city's spiritual heritage.
Libreria Ancora Store - Roma
0.2 km
Explore Libreria Ancora Store, a unique bookstore in Rome specializing in religious literature, where spirituality meets the charm of Italian culture.
La Caffeteria
0.2 km
Discover the cozy ambiance and delightful coffee selection at La Caffeteria, a must-visit coffee shop in the heart of Rome.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Caffè Leonina
0.2 km
Experience the charm of Roman café culture at Caffè Leonina, where every sip transports you to the heart of Italy.
Al Mio Caffè
0.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Al Mio Caffè, a charming bar in the heart of Rome offering exquisite coffee and pastries.
Cafe San Pietro
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian café culture at Cafe San Pietro, where rich coffees and delectable pastries await in the heart of Rome.
Bar Delle Grazie
0.3 km
Experience the heart of Roman culture at Bar Delle Grazie, where delightful flavors and local charm come together in a cozy setting.
Wine Bar De' Penitenzieri
0.3 km
Experience the essence of Italian wine culture at Wine Bar De' Penitenzieri, where every sip tells a story of tradition and passion.
Tomb of Saint Peter
0.3 km
Explore the Tomb of Saint Peter, a sacred burial site of the first pope, surrounded by breathtaking architecture and rich history in Vatican City.
Bar Latteria Giuliani
0.3 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Bar Latteria Giuliani, a cozy bar in Rome's Borgo Pio, perfect for coffee lovers and pastry enthusiasts.
Vatican Apostolic Library
0.3 km
Explore the Vatican Apostolic Library, a historic repository of knowledge, art, and culture in the heart of Vatican City.
Vatican Apostolic Archive
0.4 km
Explore the Vatican Apostolic Archive, a historical treasure trove housing centuries of documents from the Catholic Church and beyond.
American bar - Vecchio Borgo S.r.l.
0.4 km
Experience the essence of Rome at Vecchio Borgo, where delightful cocktails and sundaes await in a charming atmosphere.
Bottega Vittoria
0.4 km
Experience the authentic tastes of Italy at Bottega Vittoria in the heart of Rome, where culinary delights meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Anni 70
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Anni 70 in Rome, where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere in a perfect blend of bar and restaurant experiences.
Bukowski's Bar
0.4 km
Discover Bukowski's Bar: A vibrant bistro in Rome serving delightful dishes and an extensive drink menu, perfect for an authentic Italian experience.
Universal Bar Pizzeria
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Universal Bar Pizzeria, a true gem in the heart of Rome.