#vatican

The Sanctuary of Art and Religion - Vatican City.

As a huge fan of the Vatican and 'Angels & Demons,' I rushed straight to St. Peter's Square right after dropping off my luggage. The square was filled with chairs, and the LED screen displayed the Pope's public audience schedule. The Swiss Guards, who protect the Pope, stood at the entrance with their long spears. The line to enter the basilica formed a large semicircle around the square, including five winding S-shaped sections. Tour guides from various countries intermittently shared the history of the Vatican with their groups. After an hour of waiting, stepping into St. Peter's Basilica can only be described as 'woooooooow.' Seeing this sanctuary of religious art in person almost brought me to tears. Masters from the Renaissance to the Baroque period contributed to the construction of the church. Bernini's 140 biblical statues surround the square and the basilica, while Michelangelo envisioned the dome as a connection between the church and heaven, allowing heavenly light to flood the church through numerous windows. The tour guide repeatedly mentioned that, due to fire concerns, there are no paintings in the church. All the murals are mosaics, painstakingly assembled piece by piece by artisans over 120 years, involving tens of thousands of workers. Beyond its artistic value, its religious significance is even more profound. Legend has it that Peter's tomb lies directly beneath the church, which is why Michelangelo inscribed the verse 'You are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church' at the base of the dome. Many Popes also wished to be buried in the basement rather than in the basilica to be closer to Peter. However, it was also because the Catholic Church needed substantial funds to rebuild St. Peter's Basilica that they began selling indulgences, indirectly sparking public criticism of the church and becoming one of the catalysts for the Reformation in 1517. It is the sanctuary of Catholicism and the starting point of Christianity. The Vatican Museums next to the church were the only pre-arranged and pre-booked visit during my two-month trip. After passing through the crowded Egyptian Museum, the somewhat incomprehensible statues, and the exquisite Gallery of Maps, I finally reached the Raphael Rooms. The most famous room is the Stanza della Segnatura, and seeing 'The School of Athens' in person was very moving. But what surprised me even more was that the three frescoes in the room (The School of Athens, The Disputation of the Holy Sacrament, and The Parnassus) each represent philosophy, theology, and poetry, embodying truth, goodness, and beauty. How could anyone conceive of using such complex yet harmonious scenes to illustrate the core ideas of the Renaissance in the Pope's office? The Sistine Chapel was smaller than I imagined, with the most famous works being the ceiling frescoes 'The Creation of Adam' and the altar fresco 'The Last Judgment.' Personally, I preferred the biblical frescoes surrounding the chapel. On the north side, Perugino's Old Testament scenes depict the life of Moses and the Exodus of the Israelites, while on the south side, Botticelli's New Testament scenes portray events from the Baptism of Christ, the Last Supper, to the Passion of Jesus. The entire chapel is like a condensed Bible, from beginning to end, with tourists caught in the middle: 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.' After the main exhibits, there is a less conspicuous gallery of cultural artifacts from various countries near the exit, showcasing gifts given to the Pope by different governments. Wandering through it, I found it fascinating how countries from the United States and China to small island nations have developed different cultural beliefs in response to their unique geographical environments and have tried to record their existence in various media using their own languages. The world is vast, yet it feels so small. The museum's collection is extensive, but the quality of the visit is poor, with tour groups from various countries crowding every corner. I envy those who can join tour groups; I also want to hear passionate explanations in Chinese! Finally, I must commend all the staff at the Vatican. They were professional and courteous in their interactions, especially the guide in the Sistine Chapel, who managed the flow of visitors with enthusiasm despite the chaos of tourists ignoring instructions and taking photos. Thank you for the hospitality.

Pula: The Coastal Gem of Istria Rich in History and Natural Beauty

Pula, a stunning coastal city located in the heart of Istria, Croatia, is a captivating blend of ancient history and breathtaking natural landscapes. Famous for its remarkably preserved Roman architecture, including the iconic Pula Arena—one of the best-preserved amphitheaters in the world—this city invites you to step back in time. Wander through the charming streets of the old town, where remnants of its rich past, such as the Temple of Augustus and the Triumphal Arch of the Sergii, await exploration. Pula also boasts beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The vibrant local markets offer delicious seafood and Istrian delicacies that are a must-try. With its unique combination of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty, Pula is a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic Croatian experience. #Pula #croatia #vatican

The Vatican at Sunset

Capturing the perfect moment in the world’s smallest country may be what a lot of people are looking for. Often the best time of day to do so is the early evening as the sun is setting to the west over the Basilica, here you get that perfect panorama of the whole area from various angles around St Peter’s Square as people go about their business #vatican #100waysoftravel

The Holiest square in the world

What an incredible experience it is to visit the Vatican City. No other place on the planet can possibly have this much art and not just any art but the most famous and the most expensive of them. And bea holy center of a religion. It's an experience of a lifetime. Right in front of St. Peter's basilica lays the tall structure of St. Peter's square. A very lively place with hoards of tourists all around it. For a city that receives thousand and thousands of visitors non stop everyday. The size of this square is what it deserves. A popular sight also well known to be where people gather in thousands to see and hear the Pope during special ocassions. #italytrip#vatican #holyland #europe #localguides #historicallandmarks #mytravelhacks #100waysoftravel

Holy vibes in Vatican city 🇻🇦

At the heart of Vatican City lies St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and the epicenter of Catholicism. From its awe-inspiring dome, which offers panoramic views of the city, to the ornate interior adorned with works by Michelangelo, Bernini, and Raphael, every corner of this sacred edifice exudes a sense of grandeur and reverence. #vatican #cathedral #holycity #europe #europetrip

🇮🇹 Vatican City: St. Peter’s Basilica

#freehotelstay Imagine stepping into a place where every corner tells a story, where art and history collide in a spectacle of beauty and grandeur. Welcome to Vatican City, home to St. Peter's Basilica, the ultimate bucket-list destination for wanderlust souls and culture vultures alike! ⛪️ Saint Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world, and the most important one in the Catholic world. It unites the religious faithful and lovers of art and is a major pilgrimage site for the Catholic faithful. It frequently draws crowds of tens of thousands, both in the basilica and its adjoining St. Peter’s Square, which are used for a number of masses and celebrations during the year that are presided over by the pope. 🚂 Jet-set into the heart of Rome and find yourself at the gates of the smallest yet most powerful city-state in the world. Zip off at the Ottaviano-S. Pietro-Musei Vaticani metro stop and stride your way to a marvel that’s been centuries in the making. Tip: Beat the crowds by showing up early or during twilight hours. Your Instagram will thank you. 😉 📝 Pros and Cons: Pros:Unmatched spiritual vibes, art that’ll make your heart sing, and no entry fee Cons: Brace yourself for the tourist tide. Patience is key! 🍝 Nearby Restaurant: Forno Feliziani Not to forget this nice small cafe near by Vatican. Highly recommend it! Nice and delicious, while remain affordable. Embark on a journey to St. Peter's Basilica and discover more than just a destination – find a story waiting to be told, an inspiration waiting to be found. It’s not just a visit; it’s an adventure that will fill your soul and feed your Instagram. Ready to be part of history? #VaticanVibes #BucketListBuster #EpicAdventures# #Vatican

Smallest country in the world

Vatican city, is an independent city-state located in the heart of Rome, ruled by the Pope (Bishop of Rome). It is the centre of authority over the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican is the smallest state in Europe. "Vatican" is derived from the name of an Etruscan settlement, Vatica or Vaticum, located in the general area the Romans called Ager Vaticanus, "Vatican territory". #Vatican city #rome #Peter's basilica St peter's basilica

A Day of Faith, Art, and Culture

Imagine a day filled with divine art, centuries of history, and profound spirituality. That's exactly what I experienced during my one-day journey in the Vatican. From the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica to the spellbinding Sistine Chapel, every step felt like a revelation. The Vatican's art collection, a treasure trove of masterpieces, left me spellbound. Yet, it was the sense of faith and unity among visitors from all corners of the world that truly moved me. The small little state has a impact on hearts and souls is immeasurable. A day spent here is a day that will forever be in my memory’s. #Vatican #Faith #Art #Culture #Travel #timetotravel

Not to miss whilst in Rome 🇻🇦

Whilst you are in Rome you cannot miss visiting the Vatican city! This includes both the cathedral itself and the Vatican museums (which is where you’ll find the sistine chapel - but note no photos in there!) They are both very impressive and you will not regret taking your time to soak in the art and atmosphere here. And if you are lucky you might even get to see the pope! #rome #vatican #vaticancity #vaticanmuseum #pope

Rome is where the heart is

My trip to Rome was a breathtaking experience. The Colosseum stood majestically, a symbol of ancient grandeur. Walking through its arches brought history to life. The Vatican, with its stunning art and architecture, left me in awe. The Sistine Chapel's ceiling was a masterpiece. Rome's rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere made it a truly unforgettable destination. #rome #italiancuisine #colloseum #vatican

St. Peter’s Basilica

All throughout Europe, one can find historical influences of the Roman Catholic Church, so a visit to The Vatican will surely be unforgettable. I was immediately awestruck walking toward St. Peter’s Square and seeing the massive Basilica and long lines of people waiting to enter. Inside was even more amazing, with so many precious works of art and gold. Do take note that women must have shoulders and legs covered (security will turn people away at the entrance if they do not have proper attire). #solotravel #vaticancity #vatican

The Best Museum Ever: Vatican Museum 🇻🇦⛪

The Vatican Museums are a collection of art and historical museums located within the Vatican City. 🇻🇦 They are considered to be one of the world's greatest museums and attract millions of visitors every year. The museums are home to an extensive collection of art and artifacts that have been collected by the Roman Catholic Church and the papacy over many centuries, from ancient Egyptian relics to contemporary art. ⛪🔱🕯️🇮🇹⛪ Some of the most famous exhibits in the Vatican Museums include the Sistine Chapel, which features Michelangelo's famous frescoes on the ceiling and the walls, the Raphael Rooms, a series of rooms painted by Raphael and his assistants, and the Gallery of Maps, which houses a collection of painted maps of Italy from the late 16th century. The #Vatican Museums also house an extensive collection of sculptures, including several famous Roman sculptures, as well as a vast collection of Renaissance and Baroque art. The museums are open to the public on most days of the year, with tickets available for purchase online or at the entrance. But I recommend you to book days before visiting the place. Thus, you do not have to wait for a queue 🎟️🎫 #vaticancity #museum #Italy

Rome escape - Hotel Isa 🛋️🌆

🛎️ Isa Design Hotel is located in the historic centre of Rome between Piazza di Spagna and the Vatican. 🛋️ Hotel Isa is the perfect expression of a boutique hotel, where a friendly welcome combined with design surroundings ensures you have a perfect stay. #newyearadventure #tripblazers #2023TravelWish #本地遊 #urbanexplorer #2023travelwish #rome #italy #vatican

Vatican Gardens and Globe Sculpture

This is where the famous “Sphere within Sphere” sculpture is located. Amazing piece of art! Vatican is the smallest country in the world, but it has the world’s most magnificent buildings and architecture. No wonder it is paradise in the eyes of artists. It has attracted so many visitors to be here to discover the mysteries beneath the monuments. We spent half a day walking around and sitting on the bench to admire the beauty of this city. Sacred and majestic. Ambiance/Facilities: 10/10 Rating: 5/5 #tripblazers #vatican

Gregorian Egyptian Museum in Vatican

The Gregorian Egyptian Museum is one of the most popular exhibitions in Vatican Museums. It was established by pope Gregory XVI who was passionate about Egypt. There were different themes, such as galleries that display funeral supplies and memorabilia of the dead, and mummies. My favorite part is the Egyptian artifacts during the Roman period. Such an educational trip to know more about the richness of Egyptian art and culture. Address: Vatican Boulevard - 00165 Vatican City (Rome) Ambiance/Facilities: 8/10 Rating: 4/5 #tripblazers #vatican

St. Peter's Basilica Renaissance Architecture

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest churches in the world. It is a must visit attraction in Rome. The interior was decorated with marble. I was amazed by the wall paintings. You can see many notable artworks here, including Michelangelo. The basement was the tomb for popes. The public can now visit the tomb of Pope Benedict XVI. It is free admission. You may need to queue due to the crowds. The wait could be up to 1 hour during peak seasons. Address: St. Peter's Square - 00120 Vatican City (Rome) Ambiance/Facilities: 10/10 Ticket Price: Euro 21 per adult Rating: 5/5 #tripblazers #vatican

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

The Vatican Museum is one of the oldest museums in the world. Inside, there were 12 exhibition halls and 5 art galleries. The most popular attraction is the spiral staircase. There are archeological areas, Gregorian Egyptian Museum, Gregorian Etruscan Museum, Pio Clementino Museum, Chiaramonti Museum, Lapidary Gallery, Gregoriano Profano Museum, Pius-Christian Museum, Pinacoteca Courtyard, Ethnological Museum, Carriage Pavilion, Christian Museum, Profane Museum, Room of the Aldobrandini Wedding, Chapel of St. Peter Martyr, and Collection of Contemporary Art. So many things to see here. The nearest train station is Ottaviano. It is within 10 minutes walking distance. Address: Vatican Boulevard - 00165 Vatican City (Rome) Ambiance/Facilities: 8/10 Rating: 4/5 #tripblazers #vatican

The world’s most impressive Basilica

When you are in Rome, why not also visit Vatican? St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most impressive building in the world, and truly the masterpiece of Renaissance architecture! It is designed principally by Michelangelo, Donato Bramante, Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini and today boasts up to 20 million visitors annually! It is free to visit but you often have to stand in the queue because of crowd control and security checks. You can either come early in the morning or join a tour to skip the queue. You can also pay to visit the dome (entrance fee depending on either climbing the staircase or taking the elevator) and admire the Basilica from high above the ground! #celebratewithtrip #vatican

Meeting the Pope

Do you want to attend "meet and greet" with the Pope? Then you definitely have to plan a visit to Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican (St. Peter's Basilica) on a Sunday! Of course, the exact "meeting place" is actually the St. Peter's Square at noon and it is best to check his schedule on the website in case he is not in town. However, in the morning, you can also purchase tickets to either walk up the stairs or take elevator to see the dome of St. Peter's. From the dome, everyone attending the Sunday mass looks tiny but you can still hear the singing and sermon very vividly! Spend some time and then gather at the Square to wave to the Pope. #celebratewithtrip #vatican

St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City

Truly the heart of the Vatican City, St. Peter's Square was redesigned by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the mid-17th century. It was done under the order of Pope Alexander VII, so that the greatest number of people were able to witness the Pope giving his blessing. The most prominent feature of the Square is the rows of colonnades which give the square an elliptical shape. To have a clearer view, one can go up to the dome to capture this perfectly on camera or own eyes. At the centre of the Square is a massive obelisk from Ancient Egypt and was used to decorate a city in Ancient Egypt. #celebratewithtrip #vatican

St. Peter's Basilica At Vatican City

I was at Vatican city and naturally went to visit St. Peter's Basilica.The exterior and interior of the church were very beautiful. #bucketlistreboot #vatican

ANCIENT EGYPT IN THE VATICAN

The obelisk that is visible in St. Peter's Square was taken by Caligula. At the foot of Vatican Hill, Caligula, the Roman emperor, constructed a small circus where charioteers practised and where it is said that Nero executed Christians. Caligula had a pylon that had previously been in Heliopolis transported from Egypt by his troops to serve as the centerpiece of the amphitheater. Over 3,000 years ago, the obelisk was built for an Egyptian king out of a single piece of red granite that weighed more than 350 tons. It was transported to its current site in St. Peter's Square in 1586, where it serves as a massive sundial. #passionpassport #givethanks #gooutside #vatican #rome #italy #ancientarchitecture #history

#vatican #vaticanmuseum The Vatican museum is located in Vatican City and It’s full of the best artworks in the world. I booked the fast pass ticket because there was a long queue of people. I

**Vatican – World Center of Spirituality and Art**

The Vatican, the smallest country in the world, is a special destination for those who love art, history and religion. Located in the heart of Rome, the Vatican is the center of the Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope. Coming here, you will admire one of the greatest architectural works in the world - St. Peter's Basilica. The beautiful architecture and sacred space of the church give visitors a feeling of being overwhelmed by the magnificence of this place. In addition, a highlight that cannot be missed is the Vatican Museum, which preserves countless priceless works of art from the Renaissance period. The highlight of the museum is the Sistine Chapel with the famous fresco painted by Michelangelo on the ceiling. The exquisite, vivid details in this work are not only a symbol of Renaissance art but also a testament to Michelangelo's great talent and vision. Besides, St. Peter's Square is also a place to visit. Peter's Square (St. Peter's Square) is the site of many important Church events, with its vast space and perfectly symmetrical architecture. Whether you are a Catholic or not, the Vatican is still a place for you to feel the spiritual power and beauty of human art. 📍Address: Vatican city #Vatican #StPetersBasilica #SistineChapel #VaticanMuseums #ExploreVatican #RomeTravel #RenaissanceArt #100waysoftravel

A great city break in rome 🇮🇹

#summerdestinations Just got back from a city break in Rome, and it was fantastic! 🇮🇹 I spent a day wandering through the heart of the city, from the stunning Trevi Fountain to the iconic Spanish Steps. The entrance fee to the Vatican Museums was €17, but the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms made it totally worth it. I also loved the nearby Piazza Navona for its vibrant atmosphere and street performances. Rome's blend of ancient history and lively culture made every moment memorable. Can’t wait to go back! #trip #Rome #CityBreak #TravelAdventures #Vatican #ExploreItaly

Vatican: Discovering Timeless Beauty

#summerdestinations Vatican City, the heart of the Catholic Church, is a breathtaking blend of spiritual significance and artistic grandeur. St. Peter’s Basilica and its majestic dome gleam under the summer sun, while the Vatican Museums offer a cool refuge with their priceless art collections. With summer crowds, early morning visits are ideal for soaking in the serenity and splendor of this iconic spiritual and cultural destination. #vatican

Amazing Vatican

How good is to walk in between those amazing roofs and all that religious energy? Even if you are not catholic (as I am not), is just a pleasure seeing all that magic happening there #italy #Vatican

As a lover of history and art, visiting the Vatican was a dream come true. This tiny, independent city-state within Rome is home to a treasure trove of artistic and cultural masterpieces, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler with an appreciation for the finer things in life. My journey began with a visit to the Vatican Museums, a vast collection of art and artifacts spanning centuries. From the exquisite sculptures of the Belvedere Courtyard to the mesmerizing Raphael Rooms, each gallery was a feast for the senses. But the true highlight of the museums was the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo's masterpiece that left me speechless. The ceiling's vibrant frescoes, depicting scenes from the Old Testament, were breathtaking in their scale and detail. I stood in awe, marveling at the artist's genius and the sheer power of his work. Next, I ventured into St. Peter's Square, the vast expanse that surrounds St. Peter's Basilica. The square's grandeur was evident from the moment I stepped onto its marble expanse. The towering dome of the Basilica, a symbol of the Catholic Church, dominated the skyline, and the crowds of pilgrims and tourists added to the sense of awe and reverence. Inside St. Peter's Basilica, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of the building. The cavernous interior, adorned with marble and gold, was filled with a hushed reverence. I walked past the many chapels, each with its own unique history and artwork, and eventually made my way to the Pietà, Michelangelo's sculpture of the Virgin Mary cradling the lifeless body of Jesus. The sculpture's beauty and emotion were overwhelming, and I found myself standing there for several minutes, simply taking in the artistry. My Vatican adventure ended with a climb to the top of St. Peter's Basilica, where I was rewarded with breathtaking views of Rome. The city spread out before me like a miniature model, its landmarks etched against the horizon. I stood there for a long time, savoring the view and reflecting on the incredible experiences I had just had. Visiting the Vatican was a truly unforgettable experience. It was a journey through time and art, a chance to immerse myself in the rich history and culture of one of the world's oldest and most influential institutions. I left the Vatican feeling inspired and enriched, with a newfound appreciation for the power of art and faith.#vatican #rome #italy #vaticancity

View of Vatican City

Overseeing Vatican city on Castel Sant'Angelo #Vatican city

Roma here we come!

Back in Rome to visit family and be a massive tourist! Cant wait to eat #gelato #pizza and see all the sights #rome #collosseum #Vatican #pope. Its been 3 years since i last visited and im so excited to experience Italian culture again. Id highly recommend visiting just after the school holidays as its much quieter around all the tourists hot spots and the prices are cheaper. Ciao!