• 2021, Oct 23 06:10 pm

Why Is Vatican City a Haven For History Buffs?

Covering only 0.44 square kilometers, the Vatican is undoubtedly the world’s smallest independent state. However, within its walls, there lies an entire world of mystery and magic. Traveling in Vatican city is an enchanting experience for everyone, but if you are a history buff, this small state will keep you roaming for months!

Aside from the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican City has dozens of magnificent rooms, jaw-dropping sculptors, and priceless paintings.  Furthermore, here you will also find artifacts that were brought back by early missionaries.

To further prove our point, we have collected a list of historical places that will leave the nerd in you awe-inspired.

1.  St. Peter's Basilica

Present at the heart of Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most magnificent places you will ever witness. 

Right, when you step into the church, you are greeted by a series of mind-blowing artwork. There is an equestrian statue by Bernini and fragments of mosaic by Giotto at the entrance. Furthermore, at your left, you will find yourself facing Michelangelo's iconic Pietà and the famous Chapel of the Sacrament. 

Designed by Michelangelo, the cathedral’s dome is held by massive piers, and down below, you will see  Bernini's Baroque bronze Baldacchino, and under the magnificent building, there is a Papal altar. 

Although worldwide known as St. Peter's Basilica, in Italy, this cathedral is called ‘Basilica di San Pietro in the Vatican’. It is believed that this is the place where Saint Peter is buried. 

In addition to being a hub of the world’s most incredible art pieces and offering a sneak peek at catholic history, Saint Peter is also famous for being a pilgrimage place. Thus you should visit the Vatican even if it is your one-day trip.

2.  Sistine Chapel

Constructed between 1473 to 1481, Sistine Chapel is the second reason every history-enthusiast should visit Vatican city.  It is a rectangular-shaped building and is famous for the enchanting paintings on its ceilings. 

Aside from being a famous tourist spot, this place is also an official residence of the Pope. Furthermore, it is used for the election of the new Pope by the Sacred College of Cardinals. 

A perfect blend of tradition and diversity, this place is a paradise for art and traveling lovers. 

3.  The Vatican Garden

Famous for being one of the most beautiful gardens in Rome, Vatican City is an amalgam of flowers, bushes, trees, and plants. 

Since the place strictly accepts only a few reservations, it is barely ever crowded. A few blocks away from the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica, you can easily come here while visiting those two iconic places.

4.  Vatican Necropolis

This place is downright the most visited place in Europe. Located 15 to 12 meters below the St. Peter’s Basilica, it was discovered during an archaeological excavation in 1940. 

Since this Necropolis does not allow more than 250 people, as a tourist, you are advised to visit this place at your earliest.

5.  Museo Chiaramonti

Inaugurated by a famous sculptor Canova, Museo Chiaramonti is no less than a paradise for a true historian in you. Like many great museums in the Vatican, Museo Chiaramonti is filled with antique sculptures. This is the reason why this place is not just a hub for history nerds but also art lovers.

6.  Pinacoteca

Pinacoteca is another icon in the place that people like to see from all over the world. It was constructed by Luca Beltrami for Pius XI and was inaugurated on 27 October 1932. 

Present inside the famous Vatican Museum, Pinacoteca is the kind of a place that might not be as famous as the Sistine Chapel or St. Peter's Basilica. However, it still gravitates to visitors through its unique presence. It is loaded with alluring sculptors on the walls and is a house of most mesmerizing paintings. 

Stop the fuss and travel with us 

We hope this blog has made you understand why visiting Vatican City is a lot more than just rejuvenating your catholic spirit. If you are wondering what your next step should be, simply reach out to Malir Travel. Being the top traveling agency, Malik Travel prides itself on offering cheap flight tickets to its customers.

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