I would like to make a quick stop at St. Peter in Chains Church, however, the only day we have time is on a Sunday morning. I believe there will be a Mass at 8am which is most likely when we would be there. My question is if it is worth stopping in the church during a Mass and would be able to view the "chains" without intruding on the people worshipping.
Posted by
Texan in CA
4415 posts
No, you'd be noticed! Afterwards, no problem. And don't forget the unfinished (barely started/pieces scattered all over Europe)) tomb for Pope Julius II...
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
You might consider attending the mass. I'm not Catholic, but we ended up attending the mass on Pentecost Sunday at Santa Maria in Trastevere because that's when we had popped in. It ended up being quite a memorable experience. We sat toward the back, in case our attendance wasn't appreciated. But no one seemed to mind.
Posted by
OP
Chicago, IL, USA
93 posts
Yes attending Mass might be the only option since I would like to see the Church. Thanks for the responses.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
Another reason to attend mass is that they might turn on all the lights for the service. When they did that at SMT my jaw dropped to see all the gold mosaics in all their splendor. WOW!
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
You won't likely be able to see the chains during mass. They are in a recessed area in front of the alter and you have to either walk down into the crypt(?) or stand right next to it. If you get the chance some other time, stop in. There is also a fantastic Michaelangelo sculpture of Moses not to be missed. Or enjoy the mass and walk around afterwards.
Posted by
Auburn, Washington, USA
515 posts
My parents and I went to Rome in March and we spent about 20 minutes in the church and the chains are right near the alter and if you were to go up and see the chains you wouls be standing right next the priest. Lol. So I would either attend mass or wait till the mass is over.
Posted by
The Hague, NL (AMS)
2207 posts
Depending on the time of day, time of year, and day of the week... Mass at San Pietro in Vincoli is often held in the left transept. This is done so that everyone can "see" the chains and the Moses. The gift shop, far left as you enter, is also often open during Mass. I've been in this church during Mass a few times and on weekdays it is usually a small congregation. Tourists out-number the congregation.
Posted by
OP
Chicago, IL, USA
93 posts
Thanks for the replies. We would be there on a Sunday so there would probably be more people attending Mass. I will just have to convince my husband to attend Mass or work around it. I didn't get to visit this church on my first visit to Rome so I am determined to see it this time.