Rome: St. Peter’s Square and Basilica Smartphone Audio Guide – Rome, Italy

EXPERIENCE:

In Rome we call it “St. Peter’s enterprise” to indicate an undertaking that never seems to end. This is more than correct. Founded by Constantine on the tomb of the apostle Peter, the primitive basilica was similar to the present one in the size. Continuously enriched over the centuries, it was quite battered after its first thousand years. Pope Julius II, at the beginning of the sixteenth century, took the decision to completely rebuild it. Bramànte took charge of demolishing much of the building. This is why he was called the ‘Master of Destruction’.
The great architect from Le Marche region was succeeded by Raffaello – who came from the same region – Giuliàno da Sangàllo, Baldassàrre Perùzzi, Antonio da Sangallo and Michelangelo. The projects alternated between the Greek cross diagram – with all four arms of equal length – and the Latin cross diagram – with longer longitudinal arms. The latter was the final solution which resulted in the mortification of the magnificent Michelangelo’s dome: it was too far back and its tambour was hidden. The new temple was consecrated by Urban VIII in the mid 1620s and only with the intervention by Gian Lorenzo Bernini the balance and harmony between all the elements and parts added were restored.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Discover the Michelangelo’s masterpieces
Admire the most important Church of the world
A self guided tour to discover S. Peter, taking your time
The audio guide does not expire. You can use forever.
Language: English, French, German, Italian

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