Vatican Obelisk (Obelisco Vaticano)

The Basics

The Vatican Obelisk (Obelisco Vaticano)—one of 13 obelisks in Rome, and the only one said to have never been toppled—is best visited with a guide on a tour that touches on multiple Vatican highlights, including St. Peter's Basilica, Michelangelo’s dome, and Vatican Museums. These sites' vast collection of art is best appreciated on a private tour with skip-the-line tickets to avoid long entrance lines. In-depth Vatican tours may also include Vatican Gardens and Vatican Grottoes.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The square and its sights are accessible to wheelchair users.

• There is no dress code to enter the square, but to enter St. Peter's Basilica, your clothing must cover your shoulders and knees.

• Wear a hat and sunscreen and bring water if visiting in summer, as there is little shade in the square and no cafes or bars.

• Expect a security check to enter the basilica, but pedestrians entering the square are only screened on days when a papal audience is scheduled.

How to Get There

St. Peter’s Square is easily reached via metro line A, Ottaviano stop. To appreciate its overall architecture, approach the obelisk by walking up Via della Conciliazione to the square.

When to Get There

The square is often crowded during the opening hours of St. Peter's Basilica, so consider joining an evening or early-entry Vatican tour to see the Vatican Obelisk in St. Peter's Square in relative peace.

Mysteries and Legends of the Obelisk

For centuries, the decorative gilt ball on the top of the obelisk was believed to hold the ashes of Julius Caesar, but when architect Domenico Fontana removed the ancient metal ball to move the obelisk to St. Mark’s Square, he found only dust inside. The claim that a relic from Christ’s cross is set in the metal of the cross topping the obelisk has never been proven true or false and remains an unsolved mystery.

Ways to explore

The Vatican Obelisk (Obelisco Vaticano)—one of 13 obelisks in Rome, and the only one said to have never been toppled—is best visited with a guide on a tour that touches on multiple Vatican highlights, including St. Peter’s Basilica, Michelangelo’s dome, and Vatican Museums. These sites’ vast collection of art is best appreciated on a private tour with skip-the-line tickets to avoid long entrance lines. In-depth Vatican tours may also include stops at the Vatican Gardens and Vatican Grottoes. Papal audiences take place in St. Peter’s Square and offer a unique opportunity to view the obelisk and the Basilica.

Accessibility

The square and its sights are accessible to wheelchair users. Expect a security check to enter the Basilica, but visitors entering the square are only screened on days when a papal audience is scheduled.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bring water and sunscreen if visiting in summer, as there is little shade in the square and no cafes or bars.

What to wear

There is no dress code to enter the square, but to enter St. Peter’s Basilica, your clothing must cover your shoulders and knees.

Not allowed

Drones, large bags, backpacks, luggage, umbrellas

Amenities

Public restrooms and post offices can be found within the square. There is also free Wi-Fi. Luggage storage facilities and restaurants can be found nearby.

Address

St. Peter’s Square is located in Vatican City, an independent city-state surrounded by Rome and considered one of the holiest sites in Christianity. The Vatican Obelisk stands in the middle of the square.

Driving

From central Rome, drive via Via della Conciliazione toward St. Peter’s Square. Be aware that Vatican City restricts vehicle access. Parking is extremely limited, so it’s best to park at a nearby garage (such as Parking Gianicolo) and walk approximately five minutes to the obelisk.

Public transportation

Take Metro Line A to Ottaviano–San Pietro (or Cipro‑Musei Vaticani), then walk approximately 10 minutes along Via della Conciliazione to St. Peter’s Square. Alternatively, buses 40 and 64 stop near Piazza Pia, a short stroll away.

Best times to visit

St. Peter’s Square is open 24 hours a day, and visiting in the early morning or late evening will offer the fewest crowds.

Best days to visit

The square is especially crowded on days when a papal audience is held. Visit on an alternative weekday for a less crowded experience.

Best months to visit

The summer months and Holy Week bring the largest crowds to St. Peter’s Square, so try to visit at other times of year.

Special events

Many important ceremonies take place at St. Peter’s Square, including the papal audience. Papal audiences require tickets, which are available free of charge.