The church of San Pietro in Vincoli

Standing between the Roman Forum and Santa Maria Maggiore, the church of San Pietro in Vincoli was built in the 430s at the request of the Empress Eudoxia to house the chains of Saint Peter (imprisoned in Jerusalem and in Rome). But the church is especially known for housing the statue of Moses by Michelangelo.

Getting there : Colosseo or Cavour metro stations. Bus line no. 75.

Address : Piazza di San Pietro in Vincoli

Opening hours : from April to September, every day from 8:00 to 12:30 and from 15:00 to 19:00; from October to March, every day from 8:00 to 12:30 and from 15:00 to 18:00.

Ticket prices: free admission.

The original structure of San Pietro in Vincoli is still clearly recognisable despite the alterations made over time. It was built on the model of a basilica with 3 aisles plus a transept. Fine Doric columns, probably taken from another monument, punctuate the nave. In the 15th century the forecourt and the cloister were added. The ceiling was covered with frescoes in the 18th century.

The nave of the church of San Pietro in Vincoli in Rome

You will find the chains of Saint Peter in a fine reliquary under the altar.

Legend has it that Saint Peter had been imprisoned in Jerusalem and then in Rome. The two chains, in the possession of Pope Leo, are said to have miraculously fused when he brought them together.

They are today displayed in this reliquary.

The chains of Saint Peter in the church of San Pietro in Vincoli

Tomb of Pope Julius II, a work by Michelangelo

But what makes the reputation of San Pietro in Vincoli is the presence of the tomb of Pope Julius II, made by Michelangelo.

The original project was gigantic: 40 statues, 5 metres high, and was to stand in St Peter’s Basilica. But with the Pope neglecting the project and Michelangelo occupied with other work, the project was never completed and was reduced to the tomb visible today.

Statue of Moses by Michelangelo in the church of San Pietro in Vincoli

The central statue is one of Michelangelo’s masterpieces; it represents Moses, his fingers in his beard, his body muscular and powerful. Under his right arm he holds the tablets of the Law. He also wears horns, the traditional depiction of figures touched by God.

The statues of Leah and Rachel, on either side of Moses, are also by Michelangelo. The rest of the monument was made by his pupils. At the top you will find the coat of arms of Julius II (a tree).