Tucked away within the city of Rome lies a tiny sovereign nation that is both a spiritual epicenter and a historical treasure trove. The Vatican City, officially the Vatican City State, is the smallest country in the world, both in size and population. Despite its diminutive dimensions, it holds an immense influence over millions of Catholics worldwide and boasts some of the most iconic art and architecture in human history.
A Brief History of Vatican City
Vatican City’s roots date back to the 4th century when Emperor Constantine built the Old St. Peter’s Basilica over what was believed to be the tomb of Saint Peter, one of Jesus’ apostles and the first Pope. The Vatican became the residence of the Popes in the 14th century, and it officially became an independent state in 1929 with the signing of the Lateran Treaty between the Holy See and Italy. Since then, it has functioned as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.
Getting to Vatican City
Reaching Vatican City is simple as it’s located entirely within the city of Rome. Visitors can easily walk, take a bus, or hop on the Rome Metro (Line A) to the Ottaviano-San Pietro station, which is just a short stroll away from St. Peter’s Square. Although it’s a separate country, there are no border controls, so entering Vatican City is as easy as visiting any other part of Rome.
Key Attractions:
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is the crown jewel of Vatican City. As one of the largest churches in the world, it’s a marvel of Renaissance architecture. The stunning dome, designed by Michelangelo, dominates the skyline. Inside, visitors can admire works by Bernini, Michelangelo’s famous Pietà, and the opulent papal altar. For the adventurous, a climb to the top of the dome offers breathtaking views of Rome and the Vatican Gardens.
The Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums house one of the most extensive and impressive art collections in the world. Founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century, the museums feature masterpieces from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, ancient Roman sculptures, and Egyptian mummies. The highlight, of course, is the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling frescoes and The Last Judgment adorn the walls. Be sure to allocate plenty of time to explore the vast galleries and marvel at the incredible artistry.
Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is perhaps the most famous chapel in the world, and for good reason. It’s the site of the papal conclave, where new Popes are elected, and is adorned with Michelangelo’s extraordinary frescoes. The ceiling, depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis, and the powerful The Last Judgment on the altar wall are must-see artworks that encapsulate the grandeur of the Renaissance.
St. Peter’s Square
St. Peter’s Square, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, is the grand entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica. The massive elliptical piazza, framed by colonnades and centered on an ancient Egyptian obelisk, is a gathering place for the faithful, especially during the Pope’s weekly audiences and special ceremonies. Even when it’s not filled with pilgrims, the square is an awe-inspiring space to visit, offering a sense of the Vatican’s significance.
Tips for Visiting Vatican City
Plan Ahead: The Vatican Museums, in particular, can be very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking tickets online in advance can save you time and allow you to skip the long queues.
Dress Modestly: As a religious site, Vatican City has a strict dress code. Shoulders and knees must be covered, so make sure to dress appropriately to avoid being turned away at the entrances.
Attend a Papal Audience: If your visit coincides with a Wednesday, you can attend the Pope’s General Audience in St. Peter’s Square. Tickets are free, but they need to be reserved in advance through the Vatican’s website.
Explore Beyond the Main Sites: While St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums are the primary attractions, take time to wander through the quieter areas of Vatican City, such as the Vatican Gardens or the lesser-known chapels.
Starting from Skratch? Here are some links to help you get started:
https://www.vaticancityguide.org/
https://www.getyourguide.co.uk/vatican-city-l524/
