Vatican - this is not only one of the smallest states (in size it always competes with the state formation of the Order of Malta), but also the most popular tourist destination. It is difficult to imagine a tourist who came to Rome and did not visit the Vatican with its masterpieces of art and architecture. And of course the main object, where the queue does not end in any season of the year - Saint Paul's Cathedral.
vatican cathedral is one of the 4 Great Papal Basilicas (the other three are in Rome). In addition, this temple has the primacy in the number of pilgrims, which is quite logical, after all, the residence of the Pope himself is located in the Vatican.
To visit one of the most famous cathedrals in the world, however, like any temple in Italy, you can freely and absolutely for free. Therefore, if someone tries to sell you a ticket, then feel free to refuse.
Among the paid services are the ascent to the dome of St. Peter's Basilica, as well as a visit to the Vatican Museums (one of them is located in the former house church - The Sistine Chapel).
Why is it worth getting inside the cathedral?
The answer will not surprise you - hundreds of works of art of the Renaissance and unique examples of painting, many sculptures, huge altars, majestic vaults are collected here.
The impression of visiting this cult place is difficult to convey, all the more difficult to imagine a person who would not be impressed by this monument of baroque architecture.
Is it worth it to climb the dome of the cathedral?
The answer is unequivocal - YES! I think for those who came to explore the sights of Rome, it will not be difficult to pay 10 euros.
Moreover, in addition to the opportunity to examine the dome in detail, you will have a chance to see one of the best views of the city.
There are 2 types of ticket for the ascent: completely on foot or with the possibility of taking the elevator part of the way. Keep in mind that with any option, significant physical activity and narrow corridors await you.
I saw how elderly people refused to climb because of the difficulty and returned back, so evaluate your strength sensibly.
If you have enough strength, you can climb to the roof of the cathedral.
In addition to the aforementioned chic view of Rome and St. Peter's Square, you can look at the statues of the Saints and the external decoration of the dome.
A Brief History of the Vatican Council
The appearance of the first temple on the site of today's St. Peter's Cathedral dates back to the first half of the 4th century. In 326, work was completed on the construction of a small basilica, where the remains of the Apostle Peter were supposedly transported. After 11 centuries, when Giuliano della Rovere (Julius II) was Pope, the large-scale construction of a huge basilica began. The work stretched over many years, during which the great architects of that time replaced one another. In addition to the construction of the cathedral, work was also carried out on the design of the space around. So, for example, in the middle of the 17th century, St. Peter's Square appeared - a place that is known to all Catholics of the world.
Interesting facts about the Vatican and the Cathedral
- One way to replenish the treasury in the Vatican is to sell stamps and send letters. Tourists also actively use this kind of attraction. Agree to receive a letter or postcard from the Vatican itself would be nice. The post office and souvenir shop is located to the left of the cathedral.
- The Vatican cannot boast of multi-religiousness: all citizens of this state are Catholics.
- The Vatican is a rather young state, it is a little over 100 years old, the official date of formation is 1929.
- Vatican citizenship cannot be obtained by birth.
- By the way, very few children are born in the Vatican, there were years when they were not born at all.
- The ratio of men and women in this country is approximately 1 to 10 (almost all citizens are men).
- The Vatican is often mentioned and shown in various films, it is curious that the most common genre is horror.
Of course, the Vatican is interesting from the point of view of history, so I recommend either taking a tour or reading a little information in advance - so the impressions of the visit will be more complete.
St. Peter's Basilica is open to visitors all year round, usually from 7 am to 19 pm, but in winter the opening hours are reduced by one hour. You can get to the Vatican by metro: the nearest stations are Ottaviano and Cipro, but of course it’s better to take a walk from Piazza Navona.
Read also about the main attractions of Rome - Flavian Amphitheater (aka the Colosseum). To help the tourist - a selection of various excursions around the city and Review of The Rebulic.
