La Pietà

Overview

La Pietà is a renowned sculpture by Michelangelo, located in St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City. It is one of the most famous works of Renaissance sculpture.

La Pietà is significant for its artistic mastery and historical importance in the Renaissance period. It is the only sculpture Michelangelo ever signed.

Sculpture Religious Art

Location

Address

Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City

Neighborhood: St. Peter's Square

Coordinates

41.902900, 12.453400

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)

friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)

saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)

sunday 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (last entry 12:30 PM)

Admission

Adults

€17

Children

€8 (ages 6-18)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better lighting for viewing the sculpture

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

30 minutes

Recommended

1 hour

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• flowers in St. Peter's Square
• Easter celebrations

summer

hot

• extended opening hours
• outdoor concerts

autumn

cool

• fall colors
• harvest festivals

winter

cold

• holiday lights
• Christmas markets

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
Bring valid ID

What to Bring

essential

ID comfortable shoes tickets

seasonal

sunscreen and hat (summer) jacket (winter)

not allowed

large bags or backpacks weapons professional photography equipment without permission

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: low

• long lines and walking required
• can be crowded

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Euros (cash), credit/debit cards

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Typical Costs

entry €17 (adults), €8 (reduced)

parking €10

food €15-€30

souvenirs €5-€50

Dress Code

Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), Comfortable shoes for walking, Closed-toe shoes, shorts, sleeveless tops, inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• at least a week in advance
• official Vatican Museums website
• 48 hours in advance for full refund
• available with pre-booked tickets

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Vatican Museums Official App

Size: 50 MB

Features: Interactive maps, Audio guides, Ticket booking and management, Information on exhibitions and events

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: St. Peter's Square, Vatican Museums, Cafes and restaurants nearby

Charging Stations: Not specified

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO)

Distance: 25 km

Travel Time: 30-45 minutes

taxi

€40-€50 30-40 minutes

public_transport

€8-€10 45-60 minutes

From City Center

Distance: 2-3 km

metro

€1.50 15-20 minutes

bus

€1.50 20-30 minutes

taxi

€10-€15 10-15 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: La Pietà is a masterpiece of Renaissance art, deeply rooted in the Vatican's history and culture.

Historical Significance: La Pietà is the only sculpture Michelangelo ever signed, reflecting his artistic genius and the religious significance of the Vatican.

Insider Tips

Early morning visits offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds
The best views of St. Peter's Square can be found from the dome of St. Peter's Basilica
Local cafes and restaurants near the Vatican offer authentic Italian cuisine at reasonable prices

Local Recommendations

• Try a traditional Roman meal at a nearby trattoria
• Visit the Vatican Museums for a comprehensive art experience
• Explore St. Peter's Square and the surrounding area

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Ciao

thank_you Grazie

where_is Dov'è

how_much Quanto costa

beautiful Bello

ticket Biglietto

Guide Languages: Italian, English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

La Pietà sculpture

Best Time: early morning

Tips: low angle for dramatic effect

Result: stunning close-up shots

#LaPieta #Michelangelo #VaticanCity #ArtLover

Photography Rules

allowed areas St. Peter's Basilica (no flash), St. Peter's Square

prohibited areas Vatican Museums (unless in designated areas)

flash photography not allowed near La Pietà

commercial photography requires special permission

drone policy strictly prohibited

tripod policy require permission

selfie sticks allowed but use discretion

Nearby Attractions

St. Peter's Basilica

Distance: within the complex

Walking: 2-5 minutes

Type: Religious Site

Vatican Museums

Distance: within the complex

Walking: 5-10 minutes

Type: Museum

Castel Sant'Angelo

Distance: 1 km

Walking: 15 minutes

Type: Historical Site

Reviews

4.8

Based on 25,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Arrive early to avoid crowds"
"Book a guided tour for a deeper understanding"
"Dress appropriately for the religious site"

Contact Information

+39 06 6988 3146

info@museivaticani.va

www.museivaticani.va

Social Media

Related Tours & Activities (19)