Basilica di San Pietro

The Basilica di San Pietro (English: Saint Peter's Basilica) was a basilica in Rome. It was located in the city's Vatican district and the central place of worship for the Papacy.

In 1499 Ezio Auditore da Firenze entered the Castel Sant'Angelo to murder Rodrigo Borgia. Although he could view the Basilica from Sant'Angelo, Ezio did not approach the building.

During 1502 Rodrigo Borgia hid an Apple of Eden in the courtyard in front of the Basilica, where it remained until it was recovered by Ezio.

By 1503, a Shrine of Romulus existed underneath the Basilica. The leaders of Followers of Romulus would secretly meet Cardinals in the Basilica to receive instructions from the Pope.

Database Entry
''The original Saint Peter's Basilica, built in 326, as opposed to the epic basilica that exists today, was constructed in the form of a Latin cross. An atrium, called the Garden of Paradise, stood at the entrance, beckoning followers through the main doorways of the church.''

''Unlike pagan temples, which were lavishly decorated, the facade of Saint Peter's was plain. The new Saint Peter's is far more ornate being built during the time of the Renaissance Popes. Building began during the early Renaissance in 1506 and was completed roughly 120 years later.''

''The Basilica was built on top of the old Circus of Nero, but before you start pulling out your popcorn and cotton candy, this wasn't a modern circus. The Roman crucifixions of Christians was the main act. Saint Peter, among many others, was hung up to die there. The Basilica was built on top of this anti-Christian site, as almost an intentional modification of history by Emperor Constantine, because if it no longer exists, it never happened, right?''

Trivia

 * There is a special cutscene in the Lair of Romulus if Ezio throws the cardinal over the side of the rail. As he falls, Ezio grabs onto the key around his neck and the cardinal says: "You saved me! Praise God!" before the chain breaks and the cardinal falls to his death.
 * When exploring the Lair of Romulus, it starts to rain; this is the only time the weather changes in the Assassin's Creed series.
 * Ezio cannot climb on the walls and roof of the Basilica.