The capital of the Christian Church is the smallest independent state in the world. Vatican City declared its independence from Italy in 1929, and has been faring well so far.
Religious or not, if you visit Rome Vatican City is a mist. The city is full of the most amazing art pieces created by humans. Not just sculptures or paintings, the buildings and the gardens are also something to truly admire.
Vatican Museums
Within Vatican City you can find several museums filled with art collections which have been gathered by the Popes throughout history. Here you can appreciate the centuries of work made by the most famous artists of all time. There are museums dedicated to just sculptures, paintings, the Vatican history and more. If you travel to Rome you are invited to see one of the most amazing collections of art in the World.
Gardens of Vatican City
These are the private gardens of Vatican City, they cover almost half of this tiny country. The gardens are full of fountains and statues, most of them from the Renaissance and Baroque era. Unfortunately, this area is closed to the public. There are, however, guided tours to a limited number of people. So if you are lucky you may be able to take advantage of one of these tour options.
St. Peter’s Basilica
This is one of the largest churches around the globe and it’s considered one of the holiest places of the Christian Church. St. Peter’s is the most renowned work in Renaissance architecture; designed principally by Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Here is where the Sistine Chapel and The Pietà by Michelangelo are displayed.
According to the Christian lore, this church was built over the grave of St. Peter; one of Jesus Christ Apostles. This place gathers around 50,000 people each time the pope makes an announcement. It is especially full when a new pope is being presented. It should be noted that woman are not allowed to enter if the shoulders or knees are showing.
This place is sacred,not because it is the capital of Christianity, but for the amount of art and legacy we as human kind have left here. Vatican City has gathered the work of geniuses in architecture, painting, sculpting and more. Although this country is small it has a lot to offer its visitors.