Bernini and the Barberini in St. Peter’s Basilica

A special and unprecedented tour inside St. Peter’s Basilica awaits visitors to the exhibition “Bernini and the Barberini” through a calendar of visits designed specifically for the occasion by the Fabbrica di San Pietro in Vaticano, which granted its patronage to the exhibition at Palazzo Barberini.

Coinciding with the 400th anniversary of the consecration of the new St. Peter’s Basilica in 1626, promoted by Pope Urban VIII, Maffeo Barberini, the thematic itinerary winds its way through the Basilica, highlighting not only the historical and artistic value but also the highly symbolic and spiritual significance of Bernini’s work during the Barberini era.

The initiative represents a unique opportunity to explore an artistic period that profoundly transformed the city of Rome through the work of one of its protagonists.

The project includes a special rate for holders of tickets to the Palazzo Barberini exhibition, designed for all those who wish to explore the exhibition theme in greater depth and enjoy a more complete cultural experience, made exceptionally accessible to the public.

There is a further reduction for parish groups, school groups, and teachers, while free admission is guaranteed for disabled visitors and one accompanying person.

When: Monday, Friday, and Saturday at 2:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., until June 30, 2026.

Maximum number of participants: 30.

Duration of the visit: 1 hour.

Languages: italian and english

Info and reservations: https://visite.basilicasanpietro.va/it/booking/berninibarberini

Access

Once the purchase is complete, a confirmation email will be sent to the address provided in the reservation. The meeting point at the Basilica is located at the Visitor Desk in the Reception Area, where you will meet your guide and begin the tour.

The entrance is accessible via Via di Porta Angelica (on the right side of the colonnade, facing St. Peter’s Basilica), after passing through the Italian State Police security checks.

We recommend arriving at the entrance at least 45 minutes before the scheduled tour time to allow for security checks.

In addition to your ticket to the “Bernini and the Barberini” exhibition, visitors must bring confirmation of their guided tour reservation and a valid ID, which may be requested for checks by the Vatican authorities.

For security reasons, bulky items (suitcases, large backpacks, large bags, tripods, etc.) are not allowed. Appropriate attire is required for this sacred site.

The Fabbrica di San Pietro reserves the right to modify or cancel the tour for valid reasons, in which case it will reschedule the tour or refund the amount already paid.