Rebuilding of St. Peter's Basilica

Timeline

1. 1450–1484Vatican Hill · VaticanPope Nicholas V and Alberti and others assessed the structural crisis of the old Constantinian-era basilica and proposed plans for expansion and reinforcement; Sixtus IV continued to advance repair preparations, accumulating architectural surveys and funding plans for the later complete rebuilding.
2. 1491–1500Rome · RomeIn the late 15th century the papal court and architects continued to debate the fate of the old basilica, and the papacy raised enormous rebuilding funds through indulgences and donations; circles of Roman artists and engineers drew up plans for the grand basilica about to be launched, making the rebuilding a symbol of Catholic revival.
3. 1505–1506Vatican Hill · VaticanPope Julius II resolved on a complete reconstruction, commissioning Donato Bramante to design a centrally planned Greek-cross basilica; demolition of the old nave began in 1505. The project sparked debate among scholars and within the Church over historical heritage and grand ambition.
4. 1506–1513Vatican Hill · VaticanOn 18 April 1506 the new St. Peter's Basilica was formally founded, with Bramante overseeing the construction of four massive piers and the surrounding colonnade; the project gathered the finest architects and craftsmen from Rome and Florence, launching a Renaissance-Baroque building relay lasting over a century.