Greetings fellow explorers, Stephen Stromberg, aka "The Public Traveler," here with another exciting destination for your travel bucket list. Nestled within the heart of Rome, Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, both in size and population, but don't be fooled by its diminutive stature. This spiritual and cultural powerhouse is packed with astonishing treasures, fascinating history, and an atmosphere that leaves visitors awestruck. Join me as I take you on a journey through the highlights of this tiny sovereign city-state.
Top 10 Reasons Why Visitors Should Visit Vatican City
Witness the seat of the Roman Catholic Church: Vatican City is the spiritual center of Catholicism and home to the Pope himself.
Admire the world-famous art collection: The Vatican Museums house some of the most iconic artworks in history, including the Sistine Chapel's ceiling painted by Michelangelo.
Explore St. Peter's Basilica: The largest church in the world, this awe-inspiring basilica is an architectural marvel filled with priceless masterpieces.
Experience the Swiss Guard: The Pope's personal army, resplendent in their colorful uniforms, has protected the Holy See since 1506.
Witness a Papal Audience: Attend a public audience with the Pope in St. Peter's Square, held on most Wednesdays.
Discover the Vatican Gardens: Take a guided tour of the lush Vatican Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Delve into Vatican City's history: Explore the fascinating past of this unique city-state and its role in shaping the world.
Visit the Vatican Library: Housing ancient manuscripts, the Vatican Library is a treasure trove for scholars and history enthusiasts.
Bask in the spiritual atmosphere: Whether religious or not, visitors can appreciate the undeniable spiritual energy that permeates the city.
Combine history, culture, and sightseeing: Vatican City offers a perfect mix of art, architecture, history, and religion, all in one compact location.
A Brief History of Vatican City
Vatican City's history is inextricably linked with that of the Roman Catholic Church. The city's origins date back to the 4th century when Emperor Constantine I built the original St. Peter's Basilica on the site where St. Peter, the first Pope, was believed to have been buried. Over the centuries, the Vatican's influence grew, and the Papal States were established, controlling a large portion of the Italian Peninsula. However, in 1870, the Kingdom of Italy annexed the Papal States, leaving only the Vatican area under papal control. Vatican City became an independent city-state in 1929 with the signing of the Lateran Treaty between Italy and the Holy See.
10 Interesting Facts About Vatican City
Vatican City, covering just 44 hectares (110 acres), is the smallest country in the world by both size and population.
The Vatican City State has its own flag, anthem, post office, and even a tiny railway system.
The official language of Vatican City is Italian, but Latin is used for official documents and ceremonial purposes.
St. Peter's Square, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, can hold up to 400,000 people.
The Vatican has a population of about 800 residents, including the Pope, clergy, nuns, and Swiss Guards.
Vatican City has its own currency, the Vatican Euro, minted with unique designs featuring the Pope and religious imagery.
The Vatican's Apostolic Palace is the official residence of the Pope and contains over 1,400 rooms. 8. The Vatican Museums receive around six million visitors annually, making them one of the most visited museum complexes in the world.
The Vatican City State has a zero percent unemployment rate, as all residents work within the city.
Vatican City is the only UNESCO World Heritage site to encompass an entire country.
A Day in the Life of a Visitor to Vatican City
Upon arriving at the entrance to Vatican City, you'll immediately sense the reverence and grandeur of the place. As you make your way through the magnificent halls of the Vatican Museums, you'll marvel at the unparalleled collection of artworks, sculptures, and artifacts. Stepping into the Sistine Chapel, the sight of Michelangelo's breathtaking ceiling will leave you speechless.
Next, you'll explore St. Peter's Basilica, where the sheer size and splendor of the interior will make you feel small yet connected to something much larger. Afterward, a leisurely stroll through the lush Vatican Gardens provides a tranquil respite from the bustling city outside.
As the day comes to an end and you exit the city-state's borders, you'll be filled with a sense of awe and wonder at the history, culture, and spiritual energy that permeates every corner of Vatican City. Try not to get lost in the crowd.
Insider Travel Tips
Book your Vatican Museum tickets in advance to avoid long queues, and consider a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.
Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds, especially at St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums.
Dress modestly, as there is a strict dress code for both St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel (no shorts, miniskirts, or sleeveless tops).
If attending a Papal Audience, arrive at least two hours early to secure a good spot.
Top Free Attractions in Vatican City
St. Peter's Square
St. Peter's Basilica (excluding the Dome)
Papal Audience (requires a free ticket)
Vatican City's changing of the Swiss Guard ceremony
Money-Saving Tips
Bring a refillable water bottle, as there are several public drinking fountains in and around Vatican City.
Consider visiting during the off-peak season (November to February) for lower prices and fewer crowds.
Look for combo tickets that include entry to both the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica.
Getting There
Vatican City is easily accessible from Rome. The closest metro station is Ottaviano-San Pietro on Line A, which is about a 10-minute walk from St. Peter's Square. Buses also frequently run to the area, with bus lines 40, 62, and 64 being the most convenient.
Best Place to Eat Nearby
For an authentic and affordable Italian meal, head to "Il Sorpasso," located just a short walk from Vatican City. This charming trattoria offers delicious pasta, pizza, and local specialties, all served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Hours and Reservations
Vatican Museums:
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)
Closed on Sundays (except for the last Sunday of the month, when entry is free)
St. Peter's Basilica:
April to September: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
October to March: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
It's recommended to book your Vatican Museum tickets and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
Safety Tips
Vatican City is generally a safe destination, but it's important to stay vigilant, as with any popular tourist attraction. Keep an eye on your belongings, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. When attending a Papal Audience or visiting St. Peter's Square, be aware of your surroundings and follow any instructions given by security personnel.
Conclusion
Vatican City, the world's smallest country, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Rome. With its rich history, breathtaking art, and spiritual atmosphere, this tiny city-state offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers of all backgrounds. So, pack your bags, and prepare to embark on a remarkable journey through the heart of Catholicism, where beauty, history, and faith converge in an awe-inspiring display. As the Public Traveler, I encourage you to discover the wonders of Vatican City for yourself and create memories that will last a lifetime.
