The Jubilee of 2025 is fast approaching. In fact, whether you’re a pilgrim or a tourist, this event offers a unique opportunity to explore Vatican City and its remarkable treasures. Despite being the smallest sovereign state in the world, Vatican City is home to some of the most famous masterpieces in architecture and painting. To begin with, this guide will help you discover everything you must see in Vatican City.
Vatican Museums: a must-see in Vatican City
The Vatican Museums are an essential stop in Vatican City.
Not only do they cover over 7 kilometers of galleries, but also they showcase some of history’s most important art. For example, here are sections and collections you shouldn’t miss.
Raphael Rooms: a Renaissance marvel
The Raphael Rooms are four rooms painted by the Renaissance master. Above all, each wall tells a story of religious and historical importance. For instance, The School of Athens is a famous piece, symbolizing harmony between art and knowledge.
Vatican Pinacoteca: italian art at its finest
Moreover, the Vatican Pinacoteca is another must-see. It houses masterpieces from Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Giotto. In addition, its 18 rooms provide a complete view of Italian and European painting history.
Gregorian Egyptian Museum: a journey into ancient history
For archaeology lovers, the Gregorian Egyptian Museum is a must. It preserves artifacts from ancient Egypt, including sarcophagi, mummies, and ritual objects. This journey into the past will transport you thousands of years back in time.
Gallery of maps: a unique vision of Italy
The Gallery of Maps is a long hallway adorned with frescoed maps depicting various regions of Italy. Each map offers a masterpiece of topographical precision, showcasing Italy as it was in the 16th century.
Carriage Pavilion: a glimpse of Vatican history
The Carriage Pavilion displays historical vehicles used by the popes. From ancient carriages to modern papal cars, this collection tells the unique story of Vatican City’s mobility.
Spiral staircase: an icon of Vatican City
Before you leave the Vatican Museums, don’t miss the famous Spiral Staircase, designed by Giuseppe Momo in 1932. This iconic helix-shaped staircase is one of the most photographed spots and showcases both engineering and design brilliance.
The Sistine Chapel: Michelangelo’s masterpiece
The Sistine Chapel stands apart from other attractions in Vatican City. Here, you’ll marvel at some of the world’s most famous frescoes, including Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam and The Last Judgment. The chapel also serves as the venue for the conclave, where cardinals gather to elect a new pope.
Vatican Gardens: a hidden gem in Vatican City
The Vatican Gardens cover more than half of Vatican City’s territory. These meticulously curated gardens offer an oasis of peace. In addiction, inside you’ll find artistic and architectural gems like the ancient Leonine Walls, the Radio Tower, and the Galera Fountain. A walk here offers serenity and beauty in the heart of Vatican City.
St. Peter’s Basilica: the center of catholicism
This monumental building, the heart of Catholicism, was constructed between 1506 and 1626. Artists like Michelangelo contributed to its grandeur, with the famous dome designed by him.
Inside, you’ll find masterpieces like Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. The vast spaces and artistic wealth make the basilica a truly extraordinary place in Vatican City.
Moreover, beneath St. Peter’s Basilica lies a lesser-known treasure: the Vatican Grottoes. These underground chambers house the tombs of many popes, including St. Peter, the first pope.
St. Peter’s Square: the heart of Vatican City
Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, this architectural masterpiece welcomes millions of visitors each year. At its center stands an ancient Egyptian obelisk, flanked by two twin fountains by Bernini and Maderno.
Moreover, one experience you shouldn’t miss is climbing St. Peter’s Dome. From the top, you’ll enjoy an incredible view of Vatican City and all of Rome.
Where to see the “Cupolone” from afar
Furthermore, for a different perspective of the dome, visit Via Niccolò Piccolomini. From this vantage point, you can observe the dome in all its glory. As you approach, the dome appears to shrink, creating a surprising optical illusion.
Explore Vatican City
In short, by the end of this tour, you will have uncovered the full beauty and richness of Vatican City. This tiny state in the heart of Rome offers a one-of-a-kind experience filled with spirituality, art, and history. Visiting this place is an unmissable opportunity, especially with the upcoming Jubilee of 2025.
Finally, after a day exploring Vatican treasures, join one of our cooking classes. You’ll learn to prepare delicious Italian dishes paired with a fine glass of wine.
So, what are you waiting for?
Related post
