The View of St. Peter's Square from the Dome Taken from the cupola of St. Peter's Basilica... quite a stunning site and worth the hike up the stairs. 600 steps up, this is the view. A vast swathe of Rome is visible and even snow capped mountains in the distance.

From Some scholars insist that the semi-circular "arms" flanking either side of the square represent "the church's open arms", welcoming all those who visit. in Vatican City