Call it luck, call it divine intervention, call it whatever you will but we lucked out. By off chance while touring St. Peters Basilica we got to chatting with a Vatican attendant and learning the Pope was in residence. We also toured tour a nearly empty St. Peters Basilica the world's largest church.???? As the center for Catholicism and home to Pope Francis, St. Peters Basilica is typically bustling with activity and long lines. However, with the coronavirus surge in Italy and mass travel restrictions throughout the world visiting St. Peters brought a sense of spiritual calm and reflection. We were able to freely wander the entire basilica and languidly view historical Catholic works of art like Michelangelo's Pieta and the Pope's Papal Altar. St. Peters Basilica is one of the most awe-inspiring places our family has ever had the honor to visit and is a must-see when traveling to Rome.