I think the best view of Saint Peter's square, pictured here, was actually from above. This is the view from which one is best able to not only see the architecture of the square itself but the street that forms an avenue into Piazza San Pietro itself.

Climbing to the top in winter is an experience I will never forget. I'm not sure how crowded it would be any other time in winter, but being right smack in the midst of winter holidays, it was packed with mostly Italian families and some stray tourists like myself. The first leg of the trip from the ground to the roof, everyone raced to keep up with kids. By the time the ascent to the top of the dome began, everyone was winded and there was always someone standing in some corner of a landing trying to catch their breath.

I'll never forget finally reaching the top and bursting out of the enclosed space, cold air embracing me (happily at that point) and as I managed to find a place to press through the tiny crowd, the view of Piazza San Pietro came into view. Designed by Bernini and built in the 1600's, those colonnades are meant to symbolize the open arms of the church. The square is often used for outdoor masses.If you need a frame of reference for the height from which this photo was taken, the ants in the piazza are people! And I remember standing here and being both amazed at how high up we were and wanting to just stand here and be amazed by this view as long as I could.