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St. Peter’s Square and Basilica: The Heart of Vatican City Built on Travertine
St. Peter’s Square and Basilica are at the very heart of Vatican City, serving as the spiritual center for Catholics worldwide and one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. These monumental structures are masterpieces of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, showcasing the incredible artistic and architectural achievements of the period. Central to their construction is travertine, a stone that has been a cornerstone of Roman building projects for millennia.
The History of St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica stands on the site traditionally believed to be the burial place of Saint Peter, one of Jesus’s apostles and the first Pope. The original basilica was commissioned by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, but the current structure, designed by some of the most famous architects of the Renaissance, including Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, was built between 1506 and 1626.
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest churches in the world, and its dome, designed by Michelangelo, dominates the skyline of Rome. The basilica is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the Catholic Church’s power and influence throughout history.

St. Peter’s Square: A Baroque Masterpiece
St. Peter’s Square, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and completed between 1656 and 1667, is a grand open space that leads up to the basilica. The square is famous for its elliptical shape, surrounded by colonnades that create a sense of embrace, symbolizing the Church’s welcome to the faithful.
At the center of the square stands a towering Egyptian obelisk, which was brought to Rome by Emperor Caligula in 37 AD and later moved to its current location by Pope Sixtus V in 1586.
The Role of Travertine in St. Peter’s Square and Basilica
Travertine stone was extensively used in the construction of both St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square, contributing to the structures’ grandeur and enduring strength.
Key features involving travertine include:
- The Colonnades: Bernini’s grand colonnades, consisting of 284 columns and 88 pilasters, are made of travertine. These columns, arranged in four rows, create an awe-inspiring entrance to St. Peter’s Square and frame the basilica in a way that emphasizes its magnificence.

- Exterior Façade of the Basilica: The façade of St. Peter’s Basilica, designed by Carlo Maderno, is another example of travertine’s versatility and beauty. The stone’s pale color contrasts beautifully with the darker bronze and marble details, creating a striking visual effect.
- Paving Stones: The vast open space of St. Peter’s Square is paved with travertine, providing a durable and visually appealing surface for the millions of pilgrims and tourists who visit each year.
- Architectural Details: Inside the basilica, travertine is used in various architectural elements, including columns, bases, and decorative features, highlighting the stone’s importance in creating the basilica’s majestic interior.
Fun Facts and Architectural Highlights
- St. Peter’s Dome: Michelangelo’s dome is one of the most recognizable features of St. Peter’s Basilica. It rises to a height of 136 meters (446 feet), making it one of the tallest domes in the world. The dome is supported by massive travertine columns and walls, which bear the immense weight of the structure.
- The Obelisk: The central obelisk in St. Peter’s Square is one of the oldest monuments in Rome, dating back to ancient Egypt. Its base is made of travertine, anchoring this ancient artifact in the heart of the Vatican.
- A Place of Historic Events: St. Peter’s Square has been the site of numerous significant events, including papal elections, canonizations, and historic speeches. The use of travertine ensures that this space remains as durable as it is iconic.
- Artistic Mastery: The basilica houses some of the most famous artworks in the world, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin, both of which are framed by travertine architectural elements that enhance their beauty.
St. Peter’s Square and Basilica: A Testament to Faith and Craftsmanship
St. Peter’s Square and Basilica are not just places of worship; they are symbols of the Catholic Church’s history, art, and influence. The use of travertine in their construction links these modern masterpieces to the ancient traditions of Roman architecture, ensuring their place as enduring monuments of faith and beauty.
As you stand in St. Peter’s Square, surrounded by the grandeur of the basilica and its colonnades, you are experiencing a space that has been carefully crafted over centuries to inspire awe and devotion. The travertine stone, with its timeless appeal, is a key part of this spiritual and architectural experience.
Inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica? Bring home a piece of Rome’s history with our handcrafted travertine souvenirs, available at Made of Rome.