On the solemnity of the immaculate conception on december 8th 2015 the holy father pope francis formally opened the holy doors of the basilica of st peter and in so doing marked the beginning of the holy jubilee year of mercy your tour begins at the vatican with the basilica of st peter as this is also the location of the magnificent vatican museums and sistine chapel you have the option to an additional add on to visit these wonders before the basilica of st peter if you choose this option