ST PETER'S BASILICA, Vatican City
The largest church in Christendom was commissioned by Pope Julius II in 1506. After 120 years and 10 architects, including Michelangelo, this extraordinary building was complete. Beneath the canopy or Baldaquin on the right of the image is the tomb of Saint Peter. Goethe visited the Basilica on many occasions and although dazzled by its magnificence and intrigued by the rituals of the church, he did not allow these influences to affect his independence of thought.
"....and went to St. Peter's, which received from the bright heavens the loveliest light possible, and every part of it was clearly lighted up. As men willing to be pleased, we were delighted with its vastness and splendour"
Rome, November 22nd 1786