How to See the Pope

Piazza di San Pietro is the scene of large papal audiences, as well as special commemorations, Masses, and beatification ceremonies. When he's in Rome, the pope makes an appearance every Sunday at noon at the window of the Vatican Palace. He addresses the crowd and blesses all present, a ceremony that lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. The pope also holds general audiences in the square on Wednesday morning at about 10:30 am; a ticket is usually necessary for a seat, but even with a ticket you will have to arrive early, as about 40,000 people arrive every week, sometimes many more for special occasions. The general audience lasts between an hour and an hour and a half. In the winter and inclement weather, the audience is held in a hall adjacent to the basilica (Aula Paolo Sesto), which houses far fewer people than the square.

For admission to an audience, apply for free tickets by phone or fax, in advance, indicating your preferred date, preferred language, and your contact information during your stay in Rome. You can also apply for tickets at the Prefettura della Casa Pontifice, either by fax (06/69885863), or by going to the office Tuesday 3–6 pm (7 pm in summer) or on the morning of the audience 7–10 am. You can reach the office through the Portone di Bronzo (Bronze Door) at the end of the right-hand colonnade. Or arrange your tickets for free for a Wednesday general audience only (not for the papal Mass) through the Mission of the Catholic American Community of St. Patrick’s Church (Via Boncompagni 31; 06/88818727); but the best way is to fill out a booking form directly online at www.stpatricksamericanrome.org. You can pick up your tickets Tuesday from 4:30 to 6:15 pm only. Note that in August no official tickets are issued; you just have to show up early and hope to get a seat.