Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica

The Vatican Museum is HUGE! There are so many little galleries and so many statues, artwork, and tapestries a person could spend an entire week there before the saw everything. The guide for this tour took us on a tour of the highlights of the museum. He took us to see well known things as well as things that had a historical impact on Rome.

Entry Ticket

First time eyes were used in sculptures

Tapestry

Quite often we hear people talk about how great the paintings of the Sistine Chapel are. I can tell you they are right! The Sistine Chapel was absolutely beautiful!! The detail level of the paintings was incredible, and to think that Raphael spent almost a decade painting the entire thing. I also had to appreciate the stories the painting depicted. I can't even begin to describe the feeling of awe when you walk into the room. The sad thing about this particular visit....no photos allowed. Sorry everyone!! 

St. Peter's Basilica is also an awe-inspiring sight. It is the tallest building in Rome, and one can see the dome in many different locations throughout town. The basilica is large enough to accommodate 60,000 people....the sheer size of it is amazing, and then to walk in and see how it is adorned on the inside......I hope the pictures say more than my words, because it was definitely a sight to see.

 

And with all the interesting things to see.....

                       one can not forget a glimpse of the Swiss Guards outside the Vatican.