Vatican City: A Comprehensive Guide to Visiting the City

Vatican City is a city-state located within Rome, Italy. It is the smallest state in the world, both in population and land area, and is home to the papacy and the administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican has a rich and vibrant history spanning thousands of years, including centuries of influence from the Roman Empire, the Renaissance, and the Age of Enlightenment. It is a city steeped in culture, art, and religion, making it a popular destination for many tourists.

A Brief Overview of Vatican City

Vatican City is the smallest country in the world in terms of both population and land area. It is home to over 800 citizens and covers an area of just 44 hectares. Despite its small size, the city-state has a long and rich history that dates back to the 4th century AD when it was established by Emperor Constantine.

The Vatican is home to a number of places of worship and cultural sites, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. It is also home to a number of museums and art galleries including the Vatican Museums, the Pinacoteca Vaticana, and the Vatican Library. The city is also home to the Vatican Gardens which are open to visitors.

History of Vatican City

The history of Vatican City dates back to 326 AD when it was established by Emperor Constantine as a necropolis for members of the Roman imperial family. In the 4th century AD, it was converted into a Christian shrine by Emperor Constantine and became one of the most important religious sites in all of Christianity. In 754 AD, Pope Stephen II declared it the seat of papal power and it was officially recognized as a Papal State in 1929 by Mussolini.

The Vatican’s political power has waxed and waned over time, but it has remained an important religious center for centuries. It has also become a popular tourist destination due to its rich cultural history and wealth of historical sites.

Things To Do in Vatican City

Vatican City is an incredibly unique place full of history and culture. Here are some of the best things to do while visiting this incredible city-state:

Visit St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most revered religious sites in all of Christianity. The basilica was built on the site of St. Peter’s tomb in 1506 and it is one of the four major basilicas in Rome. The basilica is home to countless works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pieta and Bernini’s baldacchino. Visitors can explore the basilica and its many chapels, as well as climb the dome for an incredible view of Rome.

Explore The Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are home to some of the world’s finest art collections, including works from Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio, and more. The museums cover over 9 miles of galleries and contain over 70,000 works of art. Visitors can explore the galleries at their own pace or join one of the guided tours offered daily.

Visit The Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is one of the most iconic works of art in all of Italy and it is home to Michelangelo’s famous ceiling frescoes. The chapel was built in 1473 and it is one of the holiest sites in all of Christianity. Visitors can explore the chapel at their own pace or join one of the guided tours offered daily.

Go Shopping in The Borgo

The Borgo is a lively shopping district located within Vatican City and it is home to countless shops and vendors selling souvenirs, clothing, books, jewelry, and more. Visitors can explore the shops at their own pace or join one of the guided tours offered daily.

Explore The Vatican Gardens

The Vatican Gardens are one of the most beautiful places in all of Italy. The gardens span over 50 acres and are home to countless plants, trees, shrubs, statues, fountains, and more. Visitors can explore the gardens on their own or join one of the guided tours offered daily.

Popular Tours Around Vatican City

Vatican City has some amazing tours that allow visitors to experience its culture and history first hand. Here are two popular tours that you can book during your visit:

Vatican City Tour

This tour takes visitors on a journey through Vatican City’s sights, history and culture. During this tour you will visit St. Peter’s Basilica, The Sistine Chapel, The Vatican Museums, The Vatican Gardens and more. You will also get an up close and personal experience with some of history’s most famous works of art. To book this tour visit Vatican City Tour.

Vatican City Night Tour

This tour takes visitors on a journey through Vatican City at night when it comes alive with lights, music and culture. During this tour you will visit St. Peter’s Basilica, The Sistine Chapel, The Vatican Museums, The Vatican Gardens and more while experiencing the city after dark. To book this tour visit Vatican City Night Tour.

Overall, Vatican City is a must see destination for those looking to explore Italy’s culture and history. With its numerous cultural sites, museums, gardens and religious sites, Vatican City has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to explore its rich history or simply want to get a glimpse into Italy’s culture and religion, there is no better place than Vatican City to do so.