I completely agree that St. Peter's Basilica is a valuable structure with great history, and that it should be preserved for future generations to learn from. I have never seen it in person but have seen many pictures from friends who have actually been to Rome. I have always thought this building to be the heart of Rome. Now that I know, from reading your blog, more reasons why it is so special to the catholic church and to the community, it holds deeper meaning to me as well. I found it interesting that so many accomplished artists/architects worked on the construction. I knew that Michelangelo was more than just a fantastic painter because he also was a sculpture but I had no idea he was an architect too! I think the facts that it is still part of every day society, is the burial site of the first bishop in Rome, and is preserving amazing works of art are all great reasons why  St. Peter's Basilica should be part of our time capsule.
You mentioned that you have been to Rome and seen it first hand, other than thinking it was just another church, did you have any other reaction? I think it is such a grand structure as a whole and would be breathtaking to be surrounded by it. Did you choose to do this as your TCP2 because you wanted to learn more about it since you had been there?