A Historical Tour of St. Peter's Basilica

[@terksworld283]

Hey loved the video! Cant wait to read more about it in your book!

[@toldinstone]

Glad to hear it! As I mention in the video description (I've been promoting myself pretty shamelessly), the book is now available for pre-order on Amazon and other online outlets. It's scheduled to be published on September 1: www.amazon.com/Naked-Statues-Fat-Gladiators-Elephants/dp/1633887022 Thanks so much for watching, and feel free to check out the other videos about Ancient and Renaissance Rome on toldinstone.com!

[@iliveinthekingdomofpain7692]

The last time I visited the Vatican was 1977 and twice before that. Note: I have visited Roma, Italia many times afterwards, however, not the Vatican, because of then $50.00 ‘entrance fee’. (Martin Luther must be rolling in his grave.) Alone in 1977, during this last visit, I went under the tomb of St Peter. I walked a great distance under the Vatican and eventually into in the open area behind the Vatican. Oddly, at the open area exit, from the catacombs, two things were apparent: there was zero security there and I how I stumbled upon it was pure luck. When I was in the catacombs there were several areas and many mire long deep rows that extended very deep from the main stone walk-path, no doubt for entombing dead souls bodies, that when walking in complete darkness, I found my way forward with my hands upon the walls (occasionally, putting my hands into stone shelves that were carved into the walls.). So, at these ‘dead ends’ [pun intended] I turned around to later stumble upon them again. This last time I decided to turn left and 3 meters later, another wall, another 3 meters turn and suddenly light. Following the light, I exited the catacombs, under the basilica into the fresh air and sun. Inside the catacomb, under the visible St. Peter’s tomb lays a full skeleton in a marble area. It was the first thing I encountered. After two hours walking, lit only by a few light bulbs lights near the various entrances (Another is under the tower, adjacent to where the list of all the pope’s resides. I wandered with minimal sight mostly relying on touch and my Zippo lighter, as my guide. As described, these areas were endless shelves of relics and some artifacts. For the record, there was minimal security, in 1977 compared today. Though, I did watch the Swiss Guards pattern of changing shifts. Then, confident that I had a full two minutes, during the shift change when I was ‘somewhat unlikely’ I would get caught, my 22 year old self rushed the entrance of St. Peter’s tomb, scrambled down many steps most of which are not publicly visible beating the Swiss Guard’s at their own game of situational awareness. If you ever attempt this, you will need good shoes, small backpack, water, snacks, hoodie (gets seriously cold), long pants to help minimize scrape injury in darkness, cellphone due to small size and camera functionality, with an app emanating shooting in the dark, your nicest Catholic self, in the highly unlikely event that you get caught: “But sir, I have been a devout Catholic for many years and I just wanted to experience what the early Catholics must have felt…” and lastly a whole lotta confidence.

[@mariarivera5354]

So much man made beauty. If the ones that worked on that massive construction could talk we will hear their cries and tears as it was forced labor done by slaved and poor people w no pay or benefits. The talent and master craft were innate. Perfection at its best. Has endured the test of time but eventually will be gone Great video. Tks. .

[@deadpanfish]

@@toldinstone can you speak slower and enunciate a little more? It's sometimes difficult to hear everything but could be much smoother. Thanks!

[@texasRoofDoctor]

What a wonderful video. Thank you for your great work, it is obviously the labor of the love of history. I am looking forward to watching the Hagia Sophia video.

[@raywhitehead730]

As a young man, perhaps about 13 years of age, when visiting St Peters, with my parents in about 1966, I became separated from them and the tour group they were with. They did not miss me at first. And I attribute my separation to the curiosity that young children will sometimes have. Any how, I had, wandered into the hallway in front of the Vatican Library. And at a very ornate table was on display an open book. It was a hand made book with brilliant colors, open to a page with drawings depicting Aztec warriors and a Aztec pyramid and gruesome sacrifices. I was transfixed, with my gaze on this page , well I became lost in time, trying to understand what I was seeing. Then I felt a gentle hand on my shoulder, I turned and looked up to see a man in robes and a red hat. He remarked that I must be lost, and that he would take me back to my parents..... Which he did.

[@TuckerSP2011]

It must have been a Cardinal.

[@raywhitehead730]

@@TuckerSP2011 Well probably, but I don't actually know. The Vatican is well worth visiting. I went back as an adultt with my bride. I am not Catholic. But in the 60s it was so easy... To visit..no lines...my dad parked his car in the grounds!

[@bobelschlager6906]

That's a bit of an honor.

[@raywhitehead730]

@@bobelschlager6906 Things were much different in those days the absorption on security was not there and people had much more respect for property and and politeness.

[@NickMeisher]

With you being 13, lost in the Vatican, i thought this story would have a very butthurt ending ;)

[@OceanSwimmer]

I visited St. Peter's Basilica in 1998. I had an unexpected reaction to the beauty of it. My heart rate went way up and I felt euphoric. I remember looking at the larger than lifesize marble angels carved high on the walls. I knew the high polish was created by hundreds of hands polishing the dense stone with straw. For the first time I realized it represents a massive labor of love and devotion. How could I respond otherwise!

[@scottmoore1614]

I was also there in 1998. Like you, I was truly overwhelmed. I wasn’t really prepared for the scale of it.

[@georgiascott5779]

Sermons for the eyes!

[@Z1BABOUINOS]

I was also there in 1998. For the second time, and I'm not even catholic, but, When in Rome.... all roads lead to the big V

[@raywhitehead730]

A labor of love, is one, good way of describing it. I some ways I felt that too.

[@ImpendingChocolate]

My mother lost her Catholic faith after visiting the Vatican. She was so disgusted by the finery and extravagance hoarded by the church when there is so much suffering and destitution in the world. That, and the child abuse scandals of course.

[@margiethessin8975]

There’s a “Scavi” tour (excavation) under St. Peter’s where you can see the old Roman graves leading to the bones of St. Peter. It’s a fascinating journey and for believers, quite moving. The bones were discovered either right before or right after WWII. Tickets are hard to get-only 1800 a year and you need to know someone. Fortunately, I did and was able to take the tour.

[@toldinstone]

I did that tour once, and was awestruck

[@talibanairport1544]

Margie, hook me up.

[@ladonnamontalto917]

Some people want to win the lotto. This would be all I’d ever want in life.

[@mikelastname1220]

I am stunned to hear of this. Me and an Army buddy were in St. Peter's in November, 1969. We were free to roam anywhere we wanted to go. We went down in the crypt and walked forever down there looking around. It was the same for going on top of the Basilica. We were so close to the Pieta, we could have reached out and touched it. It is too bad that today's people are so wild and mean spirited that everything must have bullet proof glass or no entrance except for small guided tours. By the way, as I said this was November, 1969. Just two or three days before we got there, some deranged man jumped over the railing around St. Peter's tomb (crypt) and took a hammer and knocked two or three fingers off the statue down there. During that same time period someone set off a bomb in the Victor Emmanuel giant and beautiful monument. So many insane people in this world!!!!

[@Paulhartrocks]

Oddly enough I read a brief mention of this tour in a Rick Steves book at 6am while at work. I found their website and email and sent off an email respectfully requesting a scavi tour. About 3 minutes later my email dinged and I looked and had a reply from them with a date and time and how to pay for it. It was a very cool tour, and you exit right out into the Basilica without having to deal with the lines waiting to get in. It took me a total of about 5 minutes to make that happen lol. Pretty cool.

[@GradKat]

St Peter’s Basilica is astonishing. Quite the most beautiful and impressive building I have ever visited. I defy anyone to go there and not be completely awestruck.

[@ABH-82]

I've visited Rome twice and both times been awestruck by the scale of St Peters, there's nothing like climbing the dome and seeing the urban sprawl of one of the worlds greatest cities. Regardless of your view of the church, or the labour used in the construction of the basilica, the sheer scale of the human achievement is incredible. Understanding more of its history from this video has made it an even more impressive structure to me.

[@claudermiller]

Visited it in 2010. Absolutely incredible. It makes you feel so small. I'm sure that was the intention.

[@speggeri90]

I visited there too in 2010 in the last week of April. It sure was impressive there.

[@KaitlinLuksa]

It is so amazingly grand.

[@jamesdalton3082]

I don't think this type of architecture is designed to make us humans feel small, rather it is designed to make God seem, and I use this word with its original meaning, awesome. When we are awestruck, with a natural wonder or with magnificent buildings, we open ourselves up to the the wonder of the universe and its Creator.

[@talibanairport1544]

Same. Met an Italian gal while I was there as well. Probably the finest physical specimen I ever had the pleasure of being with.

[@Lyndanet]

@@talibanairport1544 did you do anything to make sure she knows that by telling her that?

[@thefrontporch8594]

As a young, dum 22 year old who had never been anywhere, when I walked into St. Peter's, my attention was drawn to the right, where I saw the Pieta (before the plexiglass). I had cried only once in my life, but the sight of that drama reduced me to a shuttering, sobbing mess. To this day, my heart melts at the remembrance.

[@mikelastname1220]

I was very awestruck by the way their garments were chiseled to look so real. Every fold and detail was absolutely perfect. What artistry!!!

[@gljm]

Though I have never been to the Vatican, I was as a little boy, privileged to see the Pieta which was on display at the Vatican Pavilion during the 1964-65 World's Fair here in New York City. Somewhere in my house is the 16mm film that my mother took of the statue as we slowly rode on the moving walkway which glided you past the statue which was behind glass. An unforgettable experience.

[@dianepadluck756]

I have been blessed to visit Rome on many occasions and never miss the opportunity to always visit St. Peter's. The Scavi tour and the crypt are not to be missed. However glazing at the Pieta one can only be overwhelmed looking at the work of God's hands through the young man of Michelangelo....it takes my breath away and reduces me to sobbing like a crazy person....every time!

[@barath4545]

> I had cried only once in my life Sorry but as a dad of a 3 yr old, this is categorically impossible. Ask your mom/dad/parents :)

[@thefrontporch8594]

@@barath4545 you're probably right I only remembered crying once.

[@Miata822]

No matter how pragmatic or cynical you may be, visiting St. Peters is a magical and powerful experience. The mixture of histories and artifacts and the pure grandeur of the structure is impossible to absorb in a single walking tour. Visiting off-season is highly recommended. Take your time.

[@jjcevering9411]

Like the mysteries are guarded secrets they still withhold from us.

[@rabbitrun777]

people force themselves to be cynical when it comes to anything christian. it should be enjoyed the same as any other human acheivement in architecture

[@ImpendingChocolate]

My mother lost her Catholic faith after visiting the Vatican. She was so disgusted by the finery and extravagance hoarded by the church when there is so much suffering and destitution in the world. That, and the child abuse scandals of course.

[@Miata822]

@@ImpendingChocolate I can understand her choice. A lifelong atheist I had no such illusions of the church actually embodying its proclaimed values. The Vatican museum has literal stacks of treasure piled in disarray. Here in Texas many nominally christian churches worship money, spread hatred and intolerance, say and do things completely contrary to the words in their book. But St. Pete's is a cool bit of art. There's no denying that.

[@remilenoir1271]

@@ImpendingChocolate So your mother lost her Catholic faith by the finery and "extravagance" of a place of worship meant to be used by all christendom ? Seems her "faith" was pretty weak to begin with... These riches you speak about are a common catholic heirloom, spent in a project everyone may appreciate, not some palace hidden away for the sole benefit of one man.

[@Daniel_25]

St. Peter’s basilica was by far and away the most magnificent building I’ve ever seen.

[@stone5048]

I was fortunate to visit twice within a few years. St. Peter’s and the Grand Canyon are the only two things I’ve ever seen that are totally and completely flooring. You can’t overestimate the immense power of this building it’s truly amazing. On my second visit I was lucky enough to attend mass in the papal grottos at the central altar which is one of the most special experiences of my life.

[@jangilbert8028]

And if you go, you should climb to the top where you get a birds eye view of St Peters Square! Amazing!

[@marcgoff775]

I haven’t visited St. Peter’s yet but I have visited the Grand Canyon. I’ve had friends who asked what was my impression. I told them that “It exceeded my expectations” and that has rarely happened and I’ve traveled a lot.

[@chrisgardiner2215]

the Roman catholic church are SUN worshippers

[@SmithsnMoz]

@@chrisgardiner2215 no

[@chrisgardiner2215]

@@SmithsnMoz Yes

[@maniak1768]

St. Peter's is such a breathtaking edifice just by its mindblowing, epic and absolutely unimaginable size that all these more subtle details totally escaped my view when I went there for the first time. It's probably one of those places that you could visit a hundred times without getting bored, so next time, I'll keep this video in mind! When you're stepping under the dome and read the letters 'Tu es Petrus et super hanc petram aedificabo ecclesiam meam', you literally forget to breathe. There is this giant dome hanging over you and you really start to wonder why such a massive thing looks as if it was just floating there. The thing is so enormous that pictures of it actually rarely deliver its actual size, because they lack the first person perspective, which gives the place even more mystery. There are no places I could compare this church to, not even the beautiful gothic churches of northern Europe.

[@toldinstone]

It really is an amazing place.

[@selfdefensept]

I had the privilege of visiting St Peter’s Basilica in 2007 and I can attest to it’s majesty. Excellent narrative work.

[@toldinstone]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@bcfriardoyle7697]

I was there that year too!

[@imsotired212]

Was there in ‘08

[@justinamusyoka4986]

@Phrnch Mdl It wasnt real ,its idolatry.

[@googlegmail4636]

mad voice, lol!

[@deniseroe5891]

One of my dreams is to see the Vatican and I am not Catholic. The art work is almost overwhelming. True masters of the arts.

[@fuferito]

It is so worth the visit. And, it's amazing that entrance into St Peter's is completely free of charge to anyone, and everyone has access to see world renowned art, including Michelangelo's _Pieta'._

[@therockstandard3068]

@@bepinkfloyd814 wow. What’s your problem.

[@bepinkfloyd814]

@@therockstandard3068 i was not clear in what i said? I hate the church, is a cancer in my country. They don't pay taxes and are a bunch of perverts, if you don't know shit about italy then don't act surprise. I was born here and the church has been a filfthy cancer for all the history. So either open a book or stfu.

[@therockstandard3068]

@@bepinkfloyd814 alright little kid. Tell your mommy you need some help.

[@Fractal_blip]

@@bepinkfloyd814 ur prob from North america

[@joseph71345]

Amazing history I was born in Rome 1945 behind St Peter's just inside the ancient Roman wall that surrounds Rome. My family would go to Sunday services at St. Peter's....I was baptized at St.Peter's

[@michaelinminn]

I visited St. Peter's during the Holy Year of 2000. After I walked in the door, there it was The Pieta. What a glorious moment for me. The rest of the visit was one marvelous seeing after another. Thanks, toldinstone, for bring back the memories.

[@jhogan1960]

For those of us who attended university way back when, this video/lecture is a refreshing anachronism. I feel like I am in a lecture hall with a favorite professor, immersed in the subject matter. This is geared for those of us who have the attention span to appreciate the work that went into this presentation and who have the appreciation of a long form lecture.

[@davepowell7168]

You found it long?

[@prokkle]

I wish it had been longer. There's so much to look at in this great building.

[@mikelastname1220]

I wanted it to be even longer!!! It was over in a flash. Not like some of my college lectures where I had to prop my eyes open.

[@prokkle]

Fascinating. I have visited St Peter's and WOW! I did not know the information about the obelisk, amazing that the move was even contemplated let alone achieved. The baroque tombs are a wonder, too.

[@swedishbloke]

I’m sad that I didint take my time walking through the entire basilica when I was there last February (2020). One day I will go back. One day

[@Stylographic]

Rome always waits for those who love her. She is almost 3000 years old, she have time 😉

[@rosyclaire]

I visited The Vatican in 2019 with my daughter, she took me as a present for my 70th birthday. It was wonderful, and as I'm disabled we were shown to the head of the queue and went straight in. I prayed my heart out at St Peters tomb with tears falling fast from my eyes, for one if my sons who has cancer. God and St Peter must have heard me that day as when Covid 19 started the docs stopped his cemo, and gradually they stopped all his meds. At the moment he is living a happy and fulfilled life with hardly a twinge. Long may it continue, by the will of God. I shall never forget the beauty of The Vatican and St Peters Basilica. This video shows me that beauty once more, many thanks.

[@weredragon1447]

I just discovered your channel and this is fascinating! I love learning the true history of these places (as opposed to the Hollywood versions). Just one thing, only a one hour wait in line? People wait 2 hours, or sometimes longer for a 3 minute ride at Disney world. Which is crazy to me, but there it is. I'd wait two hours to see this myself. Amazing! Thank you for the wonderful tour.

[@desertdragon2397]

Fantastic show. Dr. Ryan. Thank you kindly for getting me out of the house, and for the education. Fascinating. I look forward to more.

[@toldinstone]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@johnburman966]

Climb up to the top of the dome, winding up hundreds of steps inside the roof is a must. Huge respect for the engineers of the time.

[@TheNyteScrybe]

I was there in 2004 and attended Mass. I'm an American. I was sitting at Mass next to a Frenchman. The responses at Mass around me were of all different languages. I looked up and saw the Chair of St. Peter in front of me. Overwhelmed by the experience, I wept through the Mass. The Frenchman smiled at me, as if to say "I understand," and patted me on the shoulder. The whole experience was electrifying and if I live to be 100, that memory will be crystal clear in my mind.

[@toldinstone]

It's a special place.

[@paules3437]

Just imagine if it had been St PETER who'd smiled at you!

[@riograndedosulball248]

Saint Peter's Basilica is truly a sight of heaven

[@andyherman6596]

Your tour was quite excellent. Too short! I celebrated Mass in Latin and English at one of the side altars when I visited there decades ago. You put up a sign telling people what language you were using so they could join you. There were Masses going on all over the place, along with the big canonical Mass at the main altar at noon. I happened to end up saying Mass at the altar table right over what I thought was the tomb of my favorite baroque composer, Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina. However, I later found out that they lost his real body somewhere. I think they have found it since, but when I was there they were using some kind of reliquary piece in its place! St Peter's has always been like that! As a short piece in one of your next tours, I would suggest you also mention the fact, incredible to me, but apparently just the way things were back then, that almost all of the tombs or sarcophagi of a whole slew of popes that were on and around particularly the portico of the old basilica, were simply demolished destroyed and used as part of the building material for the new place. Contents, bones and all. In other words, they're still in St Peters, but probably not in the way they originally expected to be!

[@prokkle]

This is what I loved about the churches in Italy, they are loved and used everyday, not locked up till Sunday. Normal spiritual life goes on all the time, in spite of the tourists. At Sta. Maria Maggiore you can confess in several different languages, as the confessionals have signs saying English, Deutsch, etc. on them.

[@lonewulf44]

Just wanted to say, I only just discovered your channel, I love this video all the others I've watched. Keep up the great work Man I miss traveling.

[@Skoob1999]

Been there several times. Each time I visited, before I left, I always went back to La Pieta. The single most beautiful and emotive, evocative - I'm running out of words here - work of art that I have ever had the privilege of looking upon.

[@erichstocker4173]

I visited Rome the first time in summer of 1964. There was no wait at St. Peter. We just walked in. Sometimes women were not allowed in because they had no wraps around short blouses. Also, they were to wear something on their hair. However, one could easily get in and walk around the basilica. This was before the nut took a sledgehammer to the Pieta. It didn't need to be protected by that horrible plastic protection yet. This was possible because Rome had a lot of visitors but nowhere near what is the case now. It was a lot nicer.

[@toldinstone]

The golden age of Roman tourism

[@KaitlinLuksa]

Shame that one idiot ruins it for everyone else, but isn't that always the case?

[@ericagos1601]

Better to have the Pieta protected. There are a lot of anti Christian zealots who would love to destroy this priceless work of art.

[@joefranks4235]

I've been to Rome 9 times since 1982. Last time was in 2014 for JPII canonization. Never had an issue with getting in until 2014, but even then-we were on a pilgrimage tour and was able to buck the line.

[@dvdrtrgn]

@John Johnson Comedy gold!

[@sakabula1285]

You guys in Europa are so lucky to have acces to so many historic buildings

[@gondolacrescent5]

Excellent presentation. It’s packed full of precisely the kind of information that most attracts me...details. I thrive on details.

[@toldinstone]

I think you might like my channel...

[@vinnieviddivicci5459]

👍 👍 I have been to the basilica many times, and I was unaware of everything contained in your video. Truth is, even with a guide book, the church is so massive that it is impossible to read up on and see everything. Well done!

[@toldinstone]

Thank you!

[@josephsolowyk7697]

"Sixtus the Fifth" my OCD!!!!

[@giuseppelogiurato5718]

I'm partial to the lesser known "Fiftus the Sixth"; he's the one who installed the Vatican's hot-water heaters and upgraded the ventilation system, all on his days off... He was also the one to put a stop to excess candle-burning ("What, do I look like I'm made of wax? Pray, or put it out!") Does anyone remember him? Does he get any credit? No! ... I swear, that old Pope gets no respect!

[@erntefreude]

@@giuseppelogiurato5718 , THANK YOU. I am going to investigate this pope right now.

[@speggeri90]

Does not compute? :)

[@Blortoblorto]

I love this, 120%!

[@matthew-jy5jp]

Sure it ain't brain trauma ?

[@AGryphonTamer]

On the one hand this is the most *beautiful* and richly decorated building I have ever seen. Even in the world of modern construction and even 3d modeling the art and majesty of St. Peter's Basilica is awe-inspiring. Every single inch is covered in extravagant detail. A feat that the modern world can't reproduce even in simulation and models. And they actually built it. On the other hand it's a monument to desecration. This video was an roller coaster as my brain switched back and forth from the beauty to what it cost. Desecrating the tomb of an Emperor then breaking the stone and gluing it back together?! Using a coffin as a watering trough?! Greek and Roman monuments which had stood for hundreds and in some cases a thousand years picked apart as though they were cars in a junk yard. It's horrifying.

[@firstlast5068]

Another fantastic video!! Well done.. Thank you! I went to the Vatican as part of my honeymoon in 2003. We arrived outside at 6am (very early in the morning) as to avoid the long lines. Upon entering the Piazza San Pietro, we were informed that Pope John Paul II was to give a mass in the Piazza at 9am. We decided to attend mass instead of touring the Basilica that day; we had plenty of time, being that we were visiting Italy for about a month. It was a very rewarding decision. Pope John Paul II rode around the piazza in his covered Popemobile, and drove directly in front of us - the Pope and I made eye contact for a milli-second. I was in tears for the rest of the mass - and I am not Catholic. We did return to the Basilica two weeks later to actually tour the interior, where upon entering, I encountered the Pieta. The Pieta is my favorite piece of art of all times, and has been since I was a little boy. I saw the Pieta almost every day when I was little; it was on the dust cover of an art book that belonged to my dad. A book that I discovered after his passing when I was 5 years old. In my young mind, I attributed the Pieta to the memory of my dad and so, seeing it humbled me to my knees. Once I gained my composure, my new bride took 45 photos of me standing with the Pieta. So visiting the Vatican granted me two amazing experience: being in the presence of the Pope and being close to the Pieta. This video brought back all of those wonderful memories - Thank you!

[@toldinstone]

You're very welcome

[@billolsen4360]

My dad toured the Vatican when with the US Army in 1944 so in 1969 I got to see what he had!

[@mikelastname1220]

What a VERY touching story!!! Thanks for writing it!!!

[@chrisdjernaes9658]

Fantastic! My only regret is that it ended all too soon. It seems fitting that the most impressive parts of the Basilica are made largely from recycled materials of Rome’s most important and impressive buildings. It is a living relic of Ancient Rome.

[@toldinstone]

I'm very glad you enjoyed the video! And yes, it does seem fitting.

[@richardglady3009]

Thank you so very much for this virtual tour. As a side note, while in the Navy, I took a real tour in 1987...not even close to your tour. As a historian stuck in Arizona, I love your videos.

[@toldinstone]

You’re very welcome!

[@raywhitehead730]

In the 1960s as a young man with my parents we were taken down under the canopy to see the tomb of Peter. Its actually a rough hewn from rock and dirt cave, not big at all and with no ornamentation at all, very plain. A very stark contrast to the church above.

[@mikelastname1220]

Very few people have got to do what YOU got to do!!! Be proud!!!

[@chrisslater4053]

That Basilica in person is a mind blower - wow to the 10th power.

[@asoulnamedsophie]

Thank you so much for your video! I recently went for my first time a few days ago, and loved learning more about this beautiful masterpiece.

[@gcprost]

Thanks for doing this. I visited the Vatican as a young man. I felt like I had returned with the perfect guide to contextualize my experience.

[@jilllangman9343]

The best part for me was taking a tour underneath the basilica at the original ground level where streets of mausolea still stand. I first did the tour in ‘96 and did it again in 2000. It was quite different the second time, with air conditioning and fire doors and a lot of the most interesting things omitted. The road ended at the box containing St Peter’s remains. Even so, it was an amazing experience and i would highly recommend it.

[@TheGreatPurpleFerret]

I wish there was a way to have a 3d exploration tool showing all the parts of the Vatican as we know they grew and changed over the centuries along with how their parts came to be plundered and assembled from the ruins in the region.

[@bobelschlager6906]

Who knows. In the future, there might be such online, even interactive, tours.

[@carolberridge6102]

Thank you for concisely covering a lot of complicated ground. Fascinating. All the best.

[@douglasdaniel4504]

Once again, I wish I could had seen this video before going to St. Peter's-- but in 1978 the convenience of KZbin was still far in the future. St. Peter's blew my ignorant little mind, but how much more would I have appreciated it if I had had more information beforehand. For one thing, it surprises me how much Roman material was repurposed for medieval and Renaissance projects. You wish the original buildings were intact, but it still means that the work of the Romans is yet with us, in one form or another. I wouldn't begrudge the bulletproof screen for the Pieta-- I still remember the news when that lunatic attacked the statue in 1972. It was heartbreaking, so I personally was happy to view the statue through glass. It is magnificent, even at a distance.

[@davidsmithson865]

The attacker was the Australian "sculptor" Laszlo Toth!

[@masada2828]

Sounds Hungarian to me.

[@charlesclager6808]

Wonderful video. I am fascinated by the magnificent detail of each of the monuments featured. You must have searched long hours for this information Thanks so much.

[@peter042994]

Great video, keep up the good work!

[@toldinstone]

Thank you!

[@elaineadams3992]

Research in 2008 shows that only 1.8% of the bronze in the Baldacchino comes from the Pantheon, the rest was used to make canons for Castel Sant'Angelo

[@annieroche22]

This is a brilliant channel ! Thank you

[@toldinstone]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@cmecre8629]

such a stunning creation. went in december & never stood in a line, except to tour the graves under the basilica. great info

[@ariel340]

I've been to St. Peter's Basilica twice, and I had no clue what was on the niches around the main altar. Thanks for the explanation.

[@aknotz]

There are even staircases going down behind the statues in the niches.

[@patstokes7040]

Love this so much channel. History is the love of my life.

[@richrumble]

I learned quite a few new things about the magnificent church. Thank-you!

[@toldinstone]

You're very welcome!

[@WarrenSapir]

Thank you very much for the video Sir! I would have no idea about any of this without your gracious help. Sincerely

[@johnemerson1363]

was there in September 1968. I was just 23 and only had the week-end. Worst part was that I could not share it. I had three days notice of the trip. (I was stationed in Sicily) I went alone. I am 76 now, and I will go back with the love of my life

[@toldinstone]

Happy travels!

[@johnemerson1363]

I forgot to mention that the greatest thrill of the trip was when I was able to walk right up to the "Pieta" and touch it. I have a photo but it is so dark. It is so smooth, yet cold. And yes, Michelangelo's name is etched across the sash. Now she is well protected from the likes of the "Mad German."

[@markgrunzweig6377]

I can never get tired of your mindful presentations.

[@artistaprimus7080]

Im visiting Rome this Christmas and this is certainly on the must see list.

[@toldinstone]

It's very pleasant in winter, when the crowds are smaller.

[@arunkumarhublikar]

Don't miss sisteen chappel.

[@googlegmail4636]

Magical Jesus freaks!

[@artistaprimus7080]

@@googlegmail4636 so why do you care?

[@googlegmail4636]

@@artistaprimus7080 science is the only common base we have! Jesus freaks hate science, evil people! Why the middle east Godly books of madness? Why you need hate?

[@cognitor900]

I first went to Rome as a naive 21 year old. I spent 3 weeks racing around everywhere trying to see it all. Futile in one of the most amazing cities of the world. But I saw lots but understood less about the renaissance and Ancient Rome. I then spent 2 months in Rome in 95 as a 32 year old and I walked through St. Peter’s most days. It really developed my love and admiration of renaissance Italy and those brilliant architects, designers, artists, gardens, sculptures and everything else and my disdain for the wealth of the Catholic Church. However I found that after 6 or 7pm a lot of the church could be entered and explored respectfully. My amazement continues to this day with the Vatican and Rome. Anyhow I never knew what the four massive legs of Bernini’s masterpiece were made of…… I could only imagine they were timber as they are so massive. So thanks Dr as that’s a 20 odd year intrigue put to rest. Cast bronze…… thanks again for the great videos. Really enjoying them.

[@megenberg8]

have to let you in on something worth some thought - is it possible that even a small amount of misery could be prevented should the church and every corporate entity, each wealthy individual, and even if to a man the last coin/jewel/commodity in possession were to be donated to charity, that any mote of change would (or could) take place? unless we go to a digital currency, there may not be any way to help anyone because of the problems of distribution alone.... even then, it is a matter of upbringing and intelligence that helps people best improve conditions - a strong morality and trust among those who love God. honor, goodness, respect, decency, and kindness is the outcome of those qualities. a society worth living in and being a member of is not purchased nor has it ever been 'a given'. money is only money - but who is buying? and who can actually buy? and moreover, what is it being purchased? it is (money) but a unit of exchange for credit, goods or services. its value depends on our resources and our labor, and finally, on OUR values. in Christianity our highest value is placed in LOVE.

[@1947anubis]

Visit the scavi, under the basilica. It’s impressive.

[@toldinstone]

I visited the scavi in 2007, when I was an undergraduate studying in Rome for a semester. I've always wanted to go back.

[@paulcapaccio9905]

I’ve done the scavi 3 times. Awesome

[@danroberts007]

Wow. I visited in 2017 and went down into the grottoes but I didn’t know about the scavi… I would have tried to get tickets in advance if I had. I really enjoyed this video, thank you for producing it!

[@toldinstone]

@@danroberts007 You're very welcome!

[@wacobob56dad]

Incredible. You have to see this masterpiece in person.

[@mikeifyouplease]

I remember when I was about 12, my parents took me to the Vatican. I recall that in a very dark niche near the entrance sat the Pieta. It could be touched because it had no barriers of any sort. This was strange to me (even at that young age) because I had seen this statue in a large glossy coffee-table art book that my mother had. So while I did not appreciate the full significance of this amazing work of art, I thought it very strange that if this statue was important enough to be in my mother's art book, it should have been in a much better location. But I was then just a little boy, so what did I know.

[@mikelastname1220]

I was sort of like you. I saw the Pieta when it came to the New York World's Fair in 1964. It was behind very thick bullet proof glass and we were on a very slow moving conveyor belt moving by it. I probably got a full minute or two of viewing and then we were out of there. Security everywhere. And then, in 1969 I visited the Basilica in November and there was not more than 20 people inside the whole church. Walked in the right hand side door and instantly was right in front of the Pieta. I could have easily put my hands on it, it was so close and unprotected. I instantly recalled seeing it in New York and now seeing it totally up close and personal. That had as much effect on me as the artistry.

[@blank6313]

The Pieta you speak of may have been a replica.

[@mikeifyouplease]

@@mikelastname1220 Thank you. That is exactly how I remembered it. The niche that it was in, was quite dark and the Pieta appeared to be sitting on the floor, so it was down at my level. And you're right, I could have easily touched it as there was no security and just maybe 30 people in the entire church. Thanks for sharing a similar moment, that you and I have experienced... back so many years ago.

[@mikelastname1220]

@@mikeifyouplease Yes, and if you are like me that is one memory deeply etched into our brains! It WAS slightly below eye-level. I was so surprised to be able to see it so up-close, especially after seeing all the security around it when I saw it at the New York World's Fair. What a contrast!

[@OPaulB1000]

I used this for our tour around it today rather than paying for a dumbed down version. Thanks greatly! Rome is amazing

[@irishgrl]

Italy: where recycling was born 😂

[@toldinstone]

A subtitle for this video could have been: "because mining is hard"

[@davepowell7168]

Mankind seek shortcuts. Heard of papal bull,Holy See . Today extortion or theft to order.

[@coffeewithmia7498]

So good! I never tire! Thank you!!!

[@paoloviti6156]

I've been living in the Rome for many years and often I took my friends to visit the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican so I know quite well this enormous Basilica and his history including the previous Basilica. Unfortunately history was destroyed when the new Basilica was built, but also many other Roman constructions, but perhaps in my opinion, the worst was the destruction of the two chapels with many imperial tombs. I didn't know that the resting place of Honorius was never found, will it ever found? Thanks for sharing this very interesting video 👍👍👍

[@toldinstone]

You're very welcome. Let's hope that the Vatican will authorize new excavations in the crypt someday.

[@wholeNwon]

All the splendor reminds me of a quotation, "Sell all that you have, give to the poor and come, follow Me."

[@stephenlight647]

Of course, the counterpart, Hagia Sophia, was equally impressive, now desecrated in Constantinople.

[@freshbrewedasmr3378]

What are the pink columns made out of? What type of marble?

[@cleo6205]

Masterful descriptions and explanations of the Vatican. I am amazed. Thank you.

[@ciaotiziocaius4899]

Even though I live in Rome, I've been there only one time when I was a kid. This video made me want to go back there!

[@billolsen4360]

That's like when I lived in Los Angeles. If it hadn't have been for friends visiting from out of town, I would never had seen the Hollywood Bowl, San Pedro Harbor or the Getty Museum among other things.

[@mikelastname1220]

@@billolsen4360 Same for me living in Kentucky. When I was in the Army in 1968 all my buddies wanted to know what it was like to go to the Kentucky Derby. I only lived 24 miles away from it, but because it was in my backyard, I had no interest in it. When I got back home, I went three years in a row mostly thinking of my buddies who told me they were dying to go there.

[@camillagreer9028]

Fun video! I would love a little minimap in the corner that showed our position throughout.

[@raywhitehead730]

The Piata is behind protective glass because a crazy man attacked it with a hammer in the 70s and chipped it. Its the most beautiful object of art I ever saw. When I saw it in the sixties you could walk right up to it... So sad.

[@gondolacrescent5]

I remember the news report, he attacked it with an iron mallet and there was more damage than a chip, but it wasn’t extensive.

[@William1962]

Fantastic video and narration. Love it!

[@adamm3465]

This was so awesome!

[@toldinstone]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@gregoryheelan]

Incredible! Love and appreciate your work and educational videos.

[@barryhayes3168]

Excellant, well put together, subscribed.

[@toldinstone]

Thank you, and welcome aboard!

[@billolsen4360]

Visited St Peters in 1969, when I was 15. Everything about it blew me away, size, architecture, artwork within. Then, went into the Sistine Chapel, even more impressive.

[@daveandgena3166]

I'm so glad this video came up in my suggestions! I learned a lot from this presentation. Subscribed, & I can't wait to explore the website!

[@toldinstone]

Thank you!

[@chocothemagnificent1019]

I'm Catholic & I've always wanted to see St Peter's Basilica. But I won't go because I've been told, and you reaffirmed, it's an arduous visit. Thank you for this most excellent explanation of the Church & it's construction!

[@brucewilliams2106]

HIstory never gets old

[@AndFinally]

Amazing tour, thank you! Love your videos.

[@swissnik1966]

Great video, even I learned a few new things about a place I know well. Look forward to more videos. Just one note: the word “baldacchino” should be pronounced “baldakino” instead of “baldatchino”

[@toldinstone]

I'm very glad to hear it. And my apologies for the mispronunciation - I realized my mistake almost as soon I released the video.

[@mikelastname1220]

@@toldinstone - In my entire life time (74 years), I have always heard it pronounced CHINO. Never, KINO. Just looked up the pronunciation and you are correct! Must be a lot of people out there mispronouncing it just like I did.

[@DOLRED]

Thanks for the virtual vacation-tour here. I had to run through St Peter's in July 1974 due to a tight schedule but was more interested in the Sistine Chapel. My Irish Grandmother's name was Honoria so I now know the name is of Roman origin(?) Did make it to St Peter's Dome and have pictures of the square from that vantage point. A massive building and the Apostles Statues on the porch roof, I believe, are 20 feet high at minimum. In 1974 there was no "Shield" in front of the Pieta nor any bars above the railing on the dome roof.

[@davidlettre3578]

I was there 4 years ago, it’s absolutely breathtaking!🌈

[@Tombombadillo999]

Great channel bro, very appreciated 👍👍👍

[@TheRichard991]

Love this video! great work

[@toldinstone]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@rtroyer8963]

Wow! A lot of extremely interesting information, you are the best tour guide ever! Haven't been to Rome since 2008, I hope to return some day.

[@cittiavaticano]

man i REALLY enjoyed this.

[@toldinstone]

Glad to hear it!

[@andrewburt273]

Fantastic video - thank you for sharing!

[@TitoEdwards]

Thank you for your respectful narrative of St. Peter's. Truly appreciated!

[@toldinstone]

My pleasure!

[@jannovak6987]

omg the part about the obelisk moving was AMAZING

[@wilshirewarrior2783]

I have been blessed with 2 visits. I was till stunned after the first visit and while conversing with a Swede over dinner I asked him if he had ever seen anything like St Peter’s and his answer was..”No..never”.

[@paulcapaccio9905]

I’ve been to Rome 30 times. Never enough !

[@toldinstone]

It really is like nowhere else on the planet

[@cavlizzy]

@@toldinstone Some great advice I was given before my first visit many years ago was to *take a pair of binoculars!!* These are also helpful in the Sistine Chapel as the ceiling is about 68 feet up. (Michelangelo hid some interesting things in his paintings!) They also helped to keep my children's attention. These churches are SO tall inside that binoculars can be VERY helpful. Plus the surrounding scenery.

[@stephenlord9]

I just loved this. I do wish the narrator wouldn't mumble. He is excellent, but hard to comprehend when he gets going too fast

[@FelixIakhos]

It always amuses me that the catholic church, which champions someone advocating a sober life, built one of the most opulent and ostentatious buildings in the world. The fact that a lot of their masterpiece was plundered and recycled from a pagan empire just adds to the 'gilded kitsch' vibe that the church gives off. Thank you for the tour and all the details on each individual part of the basilica, this was very informative.

[@Briguy1027]

Fascinating story. So much history of nearly 2 thousand years.

[@daytradingnl4734]

I’m one ofthose persons who isn’t impressed easily but this did it. When inside I told my wife and children this is really something special. That made them pay more attention and about at that moment a ceremony started and a cuor started singing in the background calmly. I filmed it and when I look/listen it now Istill get goosebumps.

[@donovanwint1277]

A great delivery, I fully enjoyed this program.

[@toldinstone]

Very glad to hear it!

[@barbhorses]

How do you spell the stone you were talking about that is in the Vatican?

[@graemecreegan6749]

Porphyry

[@sifridbassoon]

Fascinating. Great photography.

[@Redbird_Girl2010]

How in the world did craftsmen build this beautiful, huge, and intricate work with primitive hand tools?

[@aimilios439]

Hand, yes, primitive, not so much. Replace electric motors with human power and everything else has remained pretty much the same ever since. It needed more work but they were smart and creative craftsmen.

[@RamManNo1]

A few pulleys. A couple levers. Some man/horse power. And a TON of planning.

[@thewarlockbride2205]

Love love love love looove your videos!! Keep up the great work!! (For our sake)