Table of Contents
Introduction
Vatican City is an independent city-state located entirely within Rome, Italy. It is governed by the Holy See and serves as the home of the Pope and the Roman Curia. With an area of only 0.17 square miles, Vatican City is the smallest internationally recognized independent state in the world.
The Vatican has existed for centuries, but Vatican City was established as an independent state in 1929 through a treaty with Italy known as the Lateran Treaty. It has its own postal service, flag, anthem, currency (the euro), newspaper, and even issues its own passports and license plates.
Vatican City may be small, but it contains many of the most significant and awe-inspiring sites of the Catholic faith. Millions of pilgrims and tourists visit each year to explore the history, art, and grandeur of this unique city-state.
Key Highlights
St. Peter’s Square is located directly in front of St. Peter’s Basilica and is one of the most iconic spots in Vatican City. This stunning elliptical plaza was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century and can hold hundreds of thousands of people for papal masses and addresses. The towering Egyptian obelisk in the center and two magnificent fountains on either side add to the square’s majesty.
St. Peter’s Basilica is considered one of the holiest Catholic shrines and is the largest church in the world. The original basilica was built on the site where St. Peter was allegedly buried in 64 AD. The current awe-inspiring structure was built between 1506 and 1626. Features include Michelangelo’s magnificent Pietà sculpture and the baldachin by Bernini over the main altar. Climbing to the basilica’s dome offers excellent panoramic views.
No visit is complete without seeing the Sistine Chapel, with its famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. His iconic fresco The Last Judgement is behind the altar. Still used for papal conclaves, this 15th century chapel is a masterpiece of Renaissance art and architecture.
The Vatican Museums contain some of the most significant art and antiquities collections on earth. Founded in the 16th century, the museums hold over 70,000 works of art. Must-see highlights include the Raphael Rooms, the Borgia Apartments, and the Spiral Staircase. The museums are enormous, so be prepared for hours of exploration.
For peace and tranquility, head to the Vatican Gardens, first established in 1279. These beautifully manicured gardens behind St. Peter’s stretch over nearly half the total area of Vatican City. Take a guided tour to appreciate their geometric flowerbeds, ornamental paved lanes, sculptures, and shady groves of trees.
The imposing Castel Sant’Angelo began as a mausoleum for Roman Emperor Hadrian in 139 AD. It was later used as a fortress and castle over the centuries. Now a museum, it offers great views from the top terrace. The Passetto di Borgo is a fortified corridor that connects Castel Sant’Angelo to Vatican City as an escape route.
Food and Shopping
Vatican City may be small, but it offers excellent dining. Try local favorites like pasta, oxtail, saltimbocca, and seafood dishes. La Veranda di Giotto offers casual meals and views of St. Peter’s. For fine dining, head to La Terrazza dell’Angelo at the five-star Hotel Anglolus. Or grab a tasty sandwich at a small cafe like Saint Peter’s Square Coffee Bar.
Find religious gifts and souvenirs at the Vatican shops like the Libreria Editrice Vaticana for books, medals, rosaries, and pictures. Other popular spots include department store Annex des Boutiques du Palais and Supermercato Vatican for wine and spirits produced by Vatican monasteries and convents. Duty-free shopping is available only with a valid Vatican passport.
Accommodation
Vatican City itself has no hotels, but excellent options exist nearby in Rome. High-end picks include Hotel Dei Consoli, just steps from St. Peter’s, and luxury hotel Bernini Bristol. More budget-friendly choices include Giovanni’s Home and Kolbe Hotel Rome, near the Vatican metro station. Advance booking is essential, as Vatican City receives millions of visitors annually.
Getting Around
Public transportation makes getting around easy. The Vatican metro station on Line A provides quick access. Bus routes 40 Express and 64 stop near Vatican City. From central Rome, expect a 30-45 minute metro or bus ride.
Once inside Vatican City, the major sights are walkable. Guided small group walking tours like Walks of Italy provide in-depth explorations. The hop-on hop-off Vatican City Open Bus Tour hits the key sites.
Taxis are available, but walking or public transport is simplest for most visitors. Note that Vatican City has no car rental facilities. Visitors with disabilities can request the Vatican’s wheelchair assistance service to tour the museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Tips for Visitors
Modest dress is required for entry into St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums – knees and shoulders must be covered. Photography is allowed without flash in the museums and St. Peter’s Square, but forbidden inside Sistine Chapel.
Avoid the intense crowds by visiting during non-peak times – early morning or evenings during summer are least crowded. Purchase skip-the-line tickets online in advance for quicker museum entry. Guided small group tours or private guides like Walks Inside Rome provide insightful takes on the history and art.
Consider taking a tour of the Necropolis under St. Peter’s Basilica to see the ancient Roman burial ground and tombs below the papal crypt. Take a Scavi tour for access – book several months in advance as space is limited.
Conclusion
For visitors interested in history, art, architecture, culture, and religion, Vatican City offers an immersive experience into the spiritual heart of the Catholic faith. As the home of the Pope and the center of Church administration, Vatican City provides a glimpse into centuries of papal history with iconic sites and priceless art around every corner. Whether you go for 2 days or 2 weeks, a trip to this tiny independent city-state should be part of any Italian itinerary to fully appreciate its sacred grandeur.
FAQs
What is the dress code for the Vatican?
The dress code for entry into St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums requires covering shoulders and knees. No shorts, miniskirts, or sleeveless shirts are permitted.
What is the best way to avoid long lines at the Vatican?
Book skip-the-line tickets online in advance for quicker museum entry. Arrive very early or late in the day to find smaller crowds. Avoid weekends and peak summer months if possible.
What is an absolute must-see at the Vatican?
The Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica are likely the most essential, must-see masterpieces. But the Vatican Museums, Gardens, and St. Peter’s Square should not be missed on a Vatican City visit.
How long does it take to see the Vatican Museums?
The immense museums can take 3-5 hours to explore properly. Focus on the Raphael Rooms, Sistine Chapel, and sculpture galleries for a shorter 2 hour visit.
Can you walk between major sites at the Vatican?
Yes, the main attractions like St. Peter’s Square, the Basilica, and Vatican Museums are within a 10-15 minute walk of each other. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will walk a lot!