A city-state surrounded by Rome, Vatican City is unique in its size and governance. The smallest sovereign state in the world by both area and population, the Vatican is under complete ownership of the Holy See, aka, the Pope. Home to the Roman Catholic Church, the Vatican boasts endless religious architecture and iconic Renaissance art. To plan your trip to the Vatican, here are the top things to do:
St. Peter’s Basilica
An important pilgrimage site for Catholic, St. Peter’s Basilica is an impressive Renaissance style church built during the 16th and 17th centuries. Whether Christian or not, the Basilica is worth a visit for being one of the largest churches in the world with an incredible dome designed by Michelangelo dominating the skyline. The overwhelming size and grandeur of the building continues inside, containing a large bronze sculpture designed by Bernini and polished marble from the floor to the roof. The Basilica can hold up to 20,000 people, and yet it reaches full capacity during the Vatican’s annual events. As entrance is free, the only things to remember are to wear modest clothing (covering your shoulders and knees) and opening times, which vary throughout the year.
St. Peter’s Square
Following on from this, it seems silly not to mention St.Peter’s Square, the plaza located directly outside the Basilica. Laid out between 1656 and 1667, the square resembles a giant keyhole with two semicircular colonnades, each consisting of four rows of Doric columns, encircling a giant ellipse that straightens out to funnel people into the basilica. Designed by Bernini, the square is meant to resemble the motherly arms of the church which is open to and encircles its people. Dazzling for its size and symmetry which is centred by the Basilica ad the two fountains which stand out front, St Peter’s square is a must see. If you’re visit is during December or April, try to time your visit to the Vatican with the Papal’s annual blessing which takes place during Christmas, Easter and New Year. Scores of people from across the globe pile into the square making for a magical night.
Vatican Museums
An extensive collection of art works dominates the walls and the very essence of the Vatican Museums. With over 6 million people visiting annually this isn’t one you want to miss. A haven for art fans, the museums host one of the largest art collections in the world. Exhibits are displayed along 7km long halls and corridors, ranging from Egyptian mummies and Etruscan bronzes to Renaissance frescoes. Housed in two palaces, joined by a long gallery, the building and its interior are almost as dazzling as the artwork on display. To make the most of your visit and avoid queues I recommend going on weekdays at 1pm.
Sistine Chapel
Whether you’ve been to the Vatican City before or not, you’ve no doubt heard of the Sistine Chapel. One of the greatest treasures of the Vatican and of Rome in general. Known for its extensive and detailed decoration, the Sistine Chapel is also the temple where the Popes are chosen and crowned. The most impressive part of the Sistine Chapel has got to be its ceiling. Covered in frescoes, the ceiling was carefully painted by the hand of Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. See some of the artists most famous images, including The Creation of Adam and The Final Judgement. Art fan or not, anyone can appreciate the masterpieces this building holds. Tickets costs €16 for adults, and €8 for children and students.
To see both the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums in all their glory and without the hoards of tourists, do what I did and book onto a tour! Although arguably a bit more extra money, you’ll get more out of your experience. If you’re read my previous blogs, you’ll know I’m a fan of Sightseeing Tours Italy, who I booked with again. Going to Italy during the Autumn it gets darker a lot quicker over there, that’s why I signed onto their Vatican and Sistine Chapel Night Tour. This meant I could keep exploring Italy after it got dark (which is usually by 5pm) all in the safety of a local guide.
I hope you get around to seeing the Vatican on you trip to Rome, leave a comment below and tell me how you found it 😊
Vatican Tours Company: Sightseeing Tours Italy
Vatican Tours Company: Sightseeing Tours Italy
Alice
About the Author
Alice is an Australian based globetrotter. She loves exploring and sharing her adventures as she goes. Alice is the owner at Alice’s Adventures.
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