Explore the wonders of Vatican City, the smallest nation in the world, steeped in history and art. Delve into its magnificent museums, marvel at St. Peter's Basilica, and experience the spiritual atmosphere of this iconic city.
The world’s smallest nation, Vatican City, boasts a history far grander than its size. As the seat of the Catholic Church, it houses an astounding collection of artistic and architectural masterpieces. With twenty-six museums and seven kilometers of galleries and corridors, the Vatican collection caters to every taste. From sculptures and paintings to tapestries, there's something for everyone to admire.
While the Raphael Rooms are typically bustling with crowds, tour groups often overlook the Pinacoteca, a hidden gem featuring works by renowned artists like Bernini, da Vinci, and Raphael.The Gallery of Maps, a 120-meter-long display of imaginative 16th-century cartography in vibrant blues and greens, topped by one of the world’s most ornate ceilings, is another must-see. For those seeking a respite from the tourist hordes, two overlooked museums offer a glimpse into history before the papacy. The Gregorian Egyptian Museum features remarkable sculptures and figures in bronze and clay, sure to delight children with its mummified humans and cats. Meanwhile, the Etruscan Museum showcases 2,700-year-old vases, jewelry, silver vessels, and bronzes, including a masterpiece depicting Greek heroes Achilles and Ajax playing dice.The sheer scale of St. Peter’s Basilica and its piazza is awe-inspiring. Columns rise like skyscrapers, and the dome seems to touch the heavens. The art within is equally impressive, featuring Michelangelo's incredible sculpture. While the grandeur is designed to intimidate, the embalmed 17th-century corpse of Innocent XI laid out for all to see in red slippers, and the plain tombs of the popes in the crypt, serve as a reminder of mortality. For the best view of Michelangelo's masterpiece, stand at the eastern end of the chapel, from where you can fully appreciate the impact of his work on the opposite wall and the Creation-depicting frescoes on the ceiling. The blue, aquarium-like luminosity is truly stunning. Don't forget to bring binoculars to observe the intricate details. The southern and northern walls, adorned by renowned Renaissance artists such as Botticelli and Perugino, also deserve your attention
VATICAN CITY ART HISTORY CULTURE RELIGION ST. PETER's BASILICA VATICAN MUSEUMS TRAVEL ITALY
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