Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Among the leading places to visit there is Vatican City, which is actually a sovereign state surrounded by the city of Rome. A stroll along the Via della Conciliazione, the principal avenue leading to the Vatican, provides an opportunity to experience the rich Italian architecture of Piazza San Pietro, or St. Peter's Square. This square, created by Bernini, can be your starting point for a walking tour of the Vatican.
St. Peter's Basilica: Basilica Di S.Pietro
At the heart of St. Peter's square is a 25-meter obelisk. Look among the Doric Colonnades for statues of Christian saints and martyrs. Ahead is St. Peter's Basilica, and to one side is the Vatican Palace. Walk slowly as you enter St. Peter's Basilica and take in such art works as Michelangelo's sculpture "La Pieta," and the canopy designed by Bernini over the high altar. Ride an elevator to the basilica's dome, also designed by Michelangelo, and take in views of Rome.
The Sistine Chapel: Cappella Sistina
The Sistine Chapel can be accessed from the Vatican Museum entry on Viale Vaticano. It is next to St. Peter's Basilica. Look for the many frescoes, such as those depicting the lives of Christ and Moses. Take extra time to view the chapel's ceiling, which took Michelangelo four years to complete, as well as the "Last Judgment," on the altar wall.
The Vatican Palace: Palazzo Vaticano
The Vatican Palace comprises about 1,400 rooms. The pope lives in an apartment that overlooks St. Peter's Square. You can walk through rooms that house the Biblioteca, or Vatican Library; and museums such as the Museo Pio-Clementino, with Roman and Greek sculptures; and the Pinacoteca art gallery, which has collections from the Byzantine period to the beginning of the 20th century. This collection also includes the Raphael Tapestries Room. Take time to visit the Egyptian, Etruscan and Christian Museums, as well as the Picture Gallery and the collection of Modern Religious Art.
