My memory of the first time I came to the Vatican was that it is a ridiculous place. And on this second visit, I concur with that memory from over 27 years ago that it still remains ridiculous. The amount of money spent on this place (and how that money was acquired) is just beyond disbelief. However, it is a great piece of architecture- yes. And so it is maybe the only space to date as part of this project that goes onto the list all but slightly reluctantly.
There 2 places in the Vatican Museum that make it worth the crowd (currently with no limit set)- the Map Room and then the Sistine Chapel. There is no amount of time that is sufficient for either.
Notes from Gemini:
The Pietà—which translates from Italian as “pity” or “compassion”—is a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture. Commissioned in 1498 by a French cardinal for his funeral monument, Michelangelo finished it in 1499.
He was only 24 years old at the time. This is the only sculpture Michelangelo ever signed.
I took the above on Easter day- it was completely empty early on- like shockingly so, and I just kept walking and walking without any tourists or people around and walked all the way up and into the Vatican. If you go to Rome, it is a mess over Easter- but there is no better time or day to visit the Vatican property and church than Easter morning. Complete peace.
Address: 00120 Vatican City
Website: UNESCO write up
