Back to intro The Sistine Chapel Papal Apartments St. Peter's Square St. Peter's Basilica St. Martha's House

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ST PETER'S SQUARE
The huge elliptical cobble-stoned square, dominated by the basilica, is a focal point for pilgrims and other visitors to Rome. Vast crowds packed the square for the funeral mass for John Paul II. The ceremony on the steps of the basilica was attended by about 200 world leaders. It was followed by private burial in the crypt.

 

view of St Peter’s Square looking away from the Basilica The square has been the scene of open-air services and audiences

view of St Peter’s square towards the Basilica Numbers swelled in the square as John Paul II’s health failed

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