Skip to main content
Go to CIA.gov
Holy See (Vatican City)

Photos

12 Photos
The facade of St. Peter's Basilica as viewed from next to one of the two matching Bernini fountains that grace St. Peter's Square (Piazza) in front of the church. The attic or upper story displays statues of Christ, his apostles, and St. John the Baptist. Constructed over a period of 80 years and consecrated in 1626, the basilica is the largest Christian church in the world - capable of holding some 60,000 people.
Looking past the obelisk that stands at the center of St. Peter's Square in the Vatican out to the city of Rome.
The statue of St. Peter in front of the Basilica of St. Peter in Vatican City.
A statue of Christ and some of his apostles on the facade of St. Peter's Basilica.
Behind the statues surmounting the facade of St. Peter's Basilica.
The interior dome of St. Peter's Basilica.
The baldachin is a massive pavilion-like structure (30 m; 98 ft tall) that stands beneath the dome of St. Peter's Basilica and over the high altar. It is reputed to be the largest piece of bronze in the world.
Closer view of the baldachin. Viewed through the structure are the Cathedra Petri (Throne of St. Peter) and the Gloria, a magnificently framed stained glass sculpture, both by Bernini.
Close up of Bernini's Gloria.
View of St. Peter's Square in the Vatican as seen from the top of St. Peter's Basilica.
Looking down from the dome of St. Peter's Basilica. St. Peter's Square is in the upper left; the modern Audience Hall in the upper right.
The stunning ceiling of the Vatican Museum.
Usage

Factbook images and photos — obtained from a variety of sources — are in the public domain and are copyright free.

View Copyright Notice