ROME -- MONUMENTAL -- 2

ST. PETER'S BASILICA

In this city of outstanding churches, none can hold a candle to St Peter's, Italy’s largest, richest and most spectacular basilica.

Built atop a 4th-century church, it was consecrated in 1626 after 120 years' construction. Its lavish interior contains many spectacular works of art, including three of Italy's most celebrated masterpieces: 

Michelangelo’s Pietà, his soaring dome, and Bernini’s 29m-high baldachin over the papal altar.

--Lonely Planet