The ceilings of St Peter's Basilica
Architects known to have worked on the design of St. Peter's Basilica include Donato Bramante, Raphael, Antonio da Sangallo the Younger, Michelangelo, Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola, Giacomo della Porta, Carlo Maderno, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Michelangelo, the architect, responsible for designing the main dome of the Basilica, was also a sculptor and a painter, who became one the greatest artists of his time.
The high, domed ceiling is ornately decorated with painted stucco depictions of Christ, several saints, and numerous other heavenly hosts.
Gilt trim borders each image and creates an awe-inspiring grandeur throughout the entire space.
The use of grandiose designs and decorations is common throughout Baroque architecture; it facilitates the desired overwhelming effect felt by the viewer.
