Vatican City

The Vatican City, which includes in its complex St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, is of course one of the main attractions of Rome.  The original construction was begun in the 4^th century by Emperor Constantine over the site of St. Peter’s tomb. In 1447 Pope Nicolas V began plans for the new cathedral, which took over 100 years to build. It is no wonder the complex is so utterly breathtaking—all of Italy’s greatest Renaissance artists were called upon to add their talents—Bramante, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Sangallo, to name just a few.The Vatican is a miniature nation tucked within the city of Rome. It is ruled by the Pope, has its own flags, issues its own postage stamps, has its own anthem, mints its own coins, and even has its own police force—the Swiss Guard who still wear the uniform designed by Michelangelo.Fronting the cathedral is the Piazza San Pietro, a breathtaking square designed by Bernini. It is so large that it can hold 400,000 people (making the square a favorite place for the Pope to address large audiences). A double semicircle of columns encloses the square, so perfectly designed that the columns fade into each other, giving the illusion that there is a single row. In the center of the square is a towering ancient Egyptian obelisk—adorned, of course, by a Christian cross. As you stand at a distance, the Piazza San Pietro forms a visual frame for the cathedral.To fully appreciate all the Vatican City has to offer, you could easily spend two days, one in St. Peter’s Basilica and one day in the Vatican museums. The Basilica is like a museum. Not only is the structure magnificent, but the vast collection of works of art inside are almost unbelievable: imagine gazing at such masterpieces as the Pietà (the ethereal sculpture of Mary holding Jesus in her arms after the crucifixion, carved by Michelangelo when he was only 25) and the Baldaccchino, the bronze canopy over the papal altar created by another master, Bernini. Also, be aware when you gaze up at the double-columned dome, that this too was designed by Michelangelo. The Sistine Chapel alone is well worth a trip to Rome. Savor the breathtaking beauty of its ceiling painted by Michelangelo. In addition to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican museums, the gardens and the rest of the Vatican can be visited, but only on guided tours. If you are interested, inquire at the Ufficio Informazioni Pellegrini et Turisti in St. Peter’s Square. NOTE: The Vatican museums are closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of the month when they are open free of charge.