Vatican City

Vatican City
7
:
29
09
AM
Thursday, November 21, 2024
Sunrise
7:06 AM
Sunset
4:46 PM

About

Vatican City, a sovereign city-state surrounded by Rome, is the spiritual and cultural heart of Roman Catholicism. It is home to numerous world-famous landmarks, including St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. Despite its small size, Vatican City boasts an impressive art collection and plenty of history, making it a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts alike.

30 Best Places to Visit

  1. 1. Visit St. Peter's Basilica

    Explore the largest and most renowned Catholic church in the world.
  2. 2. Admire the Sistine Chapel

    Marvel at Michelangelo's famous frescoes, including the iconic ceiling and "The Last Judgment."
  3. 3. Explore the Vatican Museums

    Discover an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts spanning centuries.
  4. 4. Ascend to the top of St. Peter's Dome

    Climb to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome.
  5. 5. Attend a Papal Audience

    Experience the opportunity to see the Pope and receive his blessings (if available during your visit).
  6. 6. Explore the Vatican Gardens

    Take a guided tour of the beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
  7. 7. Visit the Vatican Library

    Explore the vast collection of ancient manuscripts and books housed in one of the world's oldest libraries.
  8. 8. Admire the Vatican Apostolic Palace

    See the residence of the Pope and the administrative headquarters of the Catholic Church.
  9. 9. Explore the Vatican Pinacoteca

    Admire a remarkable collection of paintings by renowned artists, including Raphael and Caravaggio.
  10. 10. Visit the Vatican Necropolis

    Descend beneath St. Peter's Basilica to see the ancient burial site of early Christian tombs.
  11. 11. Discover the Vatican Ethnological Museum

    Learn about the cultural and religious artifacts from various regions around the world.
  12. 12. Explore the Vatican Historical Museum

    Discover the historical and artistic treasures, including papal carriages and vestments.
  13. 13. Visit the Vatican Numismatic Museum

    View an extensive collection of coins, medals, and monetary artifacts.
  14. 14. Attend a Papal Mass

    If available, participate in a religious service celebrated by the Pope in St. Peter's Square.
  15. 15. Visit the Vatican Post Office

    Send mail with Vatican City postage stamps and collect unique philatelic items.
  16. 16. Explore the Vatican Pharmacy

    Learn about the history of the Vatican's medicinal traditions and purchase herbal products.
  17. 17. Admire the Vatican Sculpture Museums

    Marvel at a diverse collection of sculptures and statues from different periods.
  18. 18. Take a guided tour of the Vatican City State

    Learn about the governance, history, and significance of Vatican City.
  19. 19. Visit the Vatican School of Paleography and Diplomacy

    Attend lectures and workshops on ancient manuscripts and diplomatic protocols.
  20. 20. Attend a concert at the Vatican

    Enjoy classical music performances in the prestigious settings of Vatican City.
  21. 21. Explore the Vatican Observatory

    Learn about the Vatican's astronomical research and see historical telescopes.
  22. 22. Visit the Vatican Stamps and Coins Museum

    Admire rare and collectible stamps and coins issued by Vatican City.
  23. 23. Attend the Vatican Christmas Eve Midnight Mass

    Experience a special Christmas celebration in St. Peter's Basilica.
  24. 24. Discover the Vatican School of Library Science

    Learn about library management and preservation techniques.
  25. 25. Explore the Vatican Radio Station

    Take a guided tour of the broadcasting facilities and learn about Vatican media.
  26. 26. Attend the Vatican Gardens Open Day

    Enjoy access to the private gardens on special occasions.
  27. 27. Visit the Vatican Archives

    Gain insight into historical documents and records dating back centuries.
  28. 28. Explore the Vatican Publishing House

    Browse and purchase publications from the Vatican's publishing arm.
  29. 29. Attend the Vatican Easter Vigil

    Witness the solemn celebration of the Easter Vigil in St. Peter's Basilica.
  30. 30. Take a guided tour of the Vatican City Walls

    Learn about the fortifications and defense systems of Vatican City.

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