Vatican City

Home to the papacy, Vatican City is an independent sovereign state ensconced in the heart of Rome. St. Peter's Square (Piazza San Pietro) is located directly in front of St. Peter's Basilica. The piazza was designed by Bernini, from 1656 to 1667 in such a way as to allow the most people possible to witness the Pope give his blessing. As a result, the square can hold an astounding 300,000 individuals. Massive Doric columns encircle the ellipse-shaped piazza, with an Egyptian obelisk monument at its center. St. Peter’s Square is a site to behold and no visitor to Rome should miss it.

 

St. Peter’s Basilica is traditionally considered to be St. Peter’s burial site. Construction began in 1506 and was completed in 1626. Michelangelo, who became the chief architect in 1546, designed the colossal dome. The interior includes several famous artworks including Bernini’s baldacchino (altar canopy) and Michelangelo’s Pieta, created when he was still in his early 20s.

 

The Vatican Museums contain an absolute mind-boggling collection of treasures. There are different tour itineraries you can follow, depending on how much time you have or what you are interested in. One of the tours leads you to the legendary Sistine Chapel, where you can view Michelangelo’s glorious ceiling.