If you have visited almost every notable attraction in Rome, spare a day and head off to the world’s smallest country, the Vatican City. Located within Rome, the Vatican is home to just around 800 people, and it was declared an independent country in 1929. The city is also the seat of Catholicism worldwide, and it has been home to the Catholic Pope since the 14th century. There is no wonder why Vatican City is called the ‘Holy See’. Every year, some five million people visit this majestic city entering through St. Peters Square. A trip to Vatican City is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here are some of the popular attractions that you can visit in the Vatican:
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
One of the things that draw tourists to the Vatican is undoubtedly the magnificent Vatican Museums – founded in the 16th century by Pop Julius II. These museums feature 54 separate galleries of beautiful art pieces. You can find hundreds and thousands of artworks here from famous artists, including Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo. There are mosaics, paintings, sculptures, Egyptian mummies, modern art, Renaissance masters, and much more to explore in the museums. It is estimated that all of these collections are worth more than roughly 15 billion euros.
Within the complex, there are many different sections to visit. Some of the most popular ones include the Raphael Rooms, the Gallery of the Statues, the Gallery of the Maps, and the Vatican Historical Museums. The Raphael rooms hold significant importance as these four rooms were painted by Raphael himself and his students from the workshops. If you have plenty of time, it is worth visiting all of them.
After spending some time at the Vatican Museums, visit one of the most popular chapels in the world – the Sistine Chapel. Housed in the Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope, the Chapel has not only become a famous tourist attraction but is also the main center of the Papal Conclave, where elections are held for the new Pope. Like other buildings of Rome, the Sistine Chapel too is an architectural marvel. You are literally going to be blown away by the incredible artwork that is adorning the chapel’s ceiling. Though you cannot resist taking a photo of the beautiful artwork of the Sistine Chapel, the use of electronic devices is strictly prohibited inside. The Chapel is mostly crowded during the summer months, but you can book a tour that can exclusively take you to the Chapel before the general public entrance.
St. Peter’s Basilica
Your visit to Vatican City is incomplete without seeing the popular St. Peter’s Basilica – one of the largest churches in the world. The church was originally built in the 4th century and was supposed to be the burial place of St. Peter. However, in the 1400s, the church was knocked down and reconstructed on the order of Pope Julius II. The St. Peter’s Basilica is free to enter but often sees a huge crowd waiting already. If you want to avoid the crowd and long queues, especially during the summer season, it is best to arrive early in the morning. Like other landmarks of Vatican City, the Basilica is also a masterpiece with artworks of many famous artists. Beneath the church, there are Vatican Grottoes – the final resting place of many Popes. It is also believed that the remains of St. Peter are also buried here, but who knows!
The Vatican is truly a wonderful place to explore in Rome, and trust us; it will never disappoint you. While exploring the city, who knows, you might catch a glimpse of currently assigned Pop Francis? So, this was the last of our three parts tour plans of Rome. Plan your trip carefully and include the attractions we mentioned on your itinerary for a wholesome experience!