Tourist Highlights of The Vatican
Admittedly, there is much to see when visiting the Vatican. A very unique
city, as it a city, state and country all in one surrounded by the city of Rome,
Italy, it is the smallest country in the world. Considering it only has one
thousand residents, some four hundred or five hundred of whom are citizens, it
is odd to note that it has its own flag, seal, postal system, army and radio
station. It is a complete entity of its own with the Pope as its ruler.
As small as this city may be, there is plenty to visit when traveling to the
Vatican.
- Saint Peters Basilica is one of the main reasons to see the Vatican. Holding daily masses in formidable surroundings, worshippers may freely enter at any time.
- Vatican Grottos are areas that are dedicated to saints, kings, queens and popes dating all the way back to the tenth century.
- Saint Peter's Tomb is considered the holiest place. The basilica is built over the tomb.
- Castel Gandolfo is the present Pope's summer home where he may hold some of his public audiences. It is a very large farming estate and houses two palaces, the observatory, animal stables, an electrical plant, housing for staff, a school, two convents and a water pumping station.
- For those individuals who wish solitude and an environment conducive to praying, the Chapel of the Sacrament is a private place where talking and noise are not permitted.
- Pope John XXIII who died in 1963 and was canonized in 2001 lays in a glass coffin for public viewing on the main floor of the basilica.
- The Christian Museum is said to be very interesting with its scenes from the Old Testament, catacomb artifacts, and numerous well-preserved sarcophagi.
- Although some of the original Vatican Gardens have been overtaken by buildings as a result of the Vatican's need to grow in limited space, the gardens are still immense. And many popes have sought solace in the gardens using the gardens as their meditation area. Guided tours are arranged for limited numbers of people so it is recommended that reservations be made well in advance.
- Just as important to see as Saint Peter's Basilica is the Sistine Chapel, named after Sixtus IV della Rovere who reigned from 1471 to 1484. Originally a meeting hall and defensive structure against enemies, the hall is said to be the same width and length as Solomon's temple in Jerusalem.
Because of the long waits in line and the ever-changing rules to visit
different areas of Vatican City, it is best to read the official Vatican
websites and email for information during your stay. Many hotels in Rome may
also stay abreast of current information and might be able to help with
reservations and advance tickets. One of the rules that has changed is the
admittance to the general public to the museums. Individuals that are part of a
guided tour will be permitted entrance at 8:45 am while others must wait until
10:00am. The crowds are getting bigger and the Vatican is trying different ways
to manage the congestion so things do change on a regular basis.
Views of The Vatican
