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Piazza dei Protomartiri

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

The Piazza dei Protomartiri is located immediately to the south of St. Peter's Basilica, occupying a site of immense historical and religious weight within the Vatican. This square sits atop the remains of the ancient Circus of Nero, where the first Christians of Rome were martyred in 64 AD following the Great Fire of Rome. A simple marble plaque in the pavement marks the original location of the Vatican Obelisk, which stood here from antiquity until its relocation to the center of St. Peter's Square in 1586 under Pope Sixtus V. Architecturally, the square is enclosed by the massive walls of the Vatican Sacristy and the entrance to the Teutonic Cemetery, creating a secluded atmosphere in contrast to the nearby basilica. Geographically, it serves as a transitional space between the public areas of the Vatican and the restricted administrative zones. The square's name, meaning 'Square of the First Martyrs,' specifically honors those who suffered under Nero's persecutions. It remains a key point of interest for those exploring the early history of the Roman Church and the topography of ancient Vatican Hill.

Location: Vatican
Top sights: Il Cuore di Nerone · Vatican Obelisk · Saint Peter's Square

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	7	8	10	14	18	23	26	26	21	17	12	8
Rain mm	73	77	69	56	57	34	26	26	70	82	114	92

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Piazza dei Protomartiri is an open square in the Vatican commemorating the first Christian martyrs. The square is freely accessible at any time and features a quiet place to linger.

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Typical hours

As a public square, there are no opening hours. The square is accessible 24/7 but less frequented at night.

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Photography

Photography is naturally allowed; the square is suitable for panoramic shots. Look out for commemorative plaques and sculptures as subjects.

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Time needed

Allow about 10-15 minutes to explore the square and absorb the atmosphere. The square is small but historically significant.

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Combine with

Combine with nearby St. Peter's Square and Basilica. The Vatican Gardens are also easily reachable from here.

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Getting there

The square is located in Vatican territory, a few minutes' walk from St. Peter's Square. The nearest bus stop is 'Cavalleggeri/S. Pietro'.

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Insider tip

Visit the square in the late afternoon when the light beautifully illuminates the memorial stones. Take time to read the inscriptions and reflect.

Geography

Coordinates

41.90200, 12.45700

Facts

The square is situated on the grounds of the ancient Circus of Caligula and Nero.
Site of the martyrdom of the first Roman Christians in 64 AD.
The Vatican Obelisk remained in its original spot here until its move in 1586.
A circular stone plaque marks the exact former location of the obelisk's base.
The northern boundary is formed by the Sacristy of St. Peter's Basilica.
This square provides the main entrance to the historic Teutonic Cemetery.