Vatican is not only one of the most important cities in the world, but it’s also the smallest one. Vatican City (as it’s officially called) is completely surrounded by the city of Rome.
The Swiss Guard
The city has its own military, which are called the Swiss Guards (also known as the Helvetians) and are dressed very historically. The guards have been protecting the Pope since 1506. In fact, all of them are Swiss and Catholic – two rules that can’t be broken.
St. Peter’s Square and Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is of utmost importance. It’s also one of the most popular sites, a spot where new popes are elected. Every Vatican visitor enters the city through the St. Peter’s square, which is an ellipse surrounded by 4 rows of Doric columns and 140 statues of saints. The square was designed by Benini.
The Basilica was built on the spot where the first Pope, Saint Peter was crucified and buried. The tomb lies under the main altar. While the initial version of the basilica dated back to 324 AD, the current version was designed by Bramante, Michelangelo, and Bernini starting in the 15th century. The amount of art you’ll see simply strolling in and around the building can’t be compared to anything else in Rome.
Sistine Chapel
Sistine Chapel was decorated by one of the greatest masters, Michelangelo.
The chapel built in 1475 and was named after Pope Sixtus IV. Today it’s pope’s private chapel. Interestingly, the Sistine Chapel includes the best and most famous works of Michelangelo. The list includes “The Creation of Adam,” “The Last Judgment,” and so on. The master was forced to leave the project of papal tomb and repaint the ceiling of the chapel. Ironically, he hated the results after finishing it.
Raphael Rooms
The Pontifical Palace has 4 very special rooms that were decorated by frescoes of another Renaissaince master, Raphael. The rooms are open to public and sometimes even host official ceremonies. Such events usually take place in the biggest of all rooms, the Room of Constantine. All 4 chambers are living galleries, with frescoes filling the walls. You won’t find a single plain spot, everything is painted with genius.
The Papal Palace
The Papal Palace, also known as the Apostolic Palace, is the Pope’s residence and a luxurious piece of art. The palace contains mind-blowing gardens with the papal coat of arms and polished designs.
It houses not only the papal residence, but also the Vatican Museums and the administrative rooms of the Catholic Church. The construction of the palace was commissioned by the Pope Sixtus IV in the 16th century.
Museum of Secular Art
Four floors of the museum contain displays dedicated to Roman repainting of the Greek originals, sarcophagi, and sculptures.
Although the city receives thousands of tourist annually, there are strict rules of dress and behavior. Once you enter the Vatican walls, you’ll have to comply with the laws of this religious city-state. If you want to soak in Vatican atmosphere before your trip, make sure to read Dan Brown’s “Angels and Demons.” The book will arouse your curiosity and desire for mysteries.
