Vatican City, officially known as the Vatican City State, is the smallest independent state in the world by both area and population. Nestled within the city of Rome, Italy, it is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and the permanent residence of the Pope. Established in 1929 by the Lateran Treaty signed between the Holy See and Italy, Vatican City spans approximately 44 hectares (about 110 acres) and is renowned not only for its religious significance but also for its impeccable cultural and historic assets.
For travelers, visiting Vatican City offers a unique and deeply enriching experience. It houses some of the most famous cultural treasures in the world, including the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica, the breathtaking Sistine Chapel – adorned with Michelangelo’s stunning ceiling and The Last Judgment – and the vast collections of art and history in the Vatican Museums. Walking through Vatican City is akin to meandering through a colossal open-air museum, where history, art, and religion intertwine to tell stories that span centuries. Whether you are a follower of the faith or an admirer of art and history, the profound beauty and tranquility of Vatican City is captivating.
Best places to visit in Vatican City
St. Peter’s Basilica
A Renaissance-era church that is regarded as one of the holiest Catholic sites and an iconic example of architectural splendor.
Guide coming soonVatican Museums
Home to an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts collected by the Roman Catholic Church over centuries, featuring works from the greatest artists of all time.
Guide coming soonSistine Chapel
Famous for its architecture and its decoration that was frescoed throughout by the greatest Renaissance artists including Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini.
Guide coming soonVatican Gardens
A place of quiet and meditation, the Vatican Gardens cover more than half of the country and feature a variety of medieval fortifications, monuments, and fountains.
Guide coming soonSt. Peter’s Square
A grand elliptical space embraced by colonnades, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, with an Egyptian obelisk at the center, surrounded by breathtaking sculptures.
Guide coming soonApostolic Palace
The official residence of the Pope, which also houses various offices essential to the Catholic Church’s function, featuring stunning chapels and rooms designed by great artists.
Guide coming soonNecropolis
An underground cemetery that is believed to hold the tomb of Saint Peter himself and other ancient Roman families; requires special permission for tours.
Guide coming soonVatican Library
One of the oldest libraries in the world containing a vast collection of texts, manuscripts, and historical records preserved and used by the church.
Guide coming soonCortile del Belvedere
A historic courtyard designed by Donato Bramante that connects the Vatican Palace with the Villa Belvedere and contains several important sculptures and galleries.
Guide coming soonVatican Pinacoteca
An art gallery that houses a collection of paintings by Renaissance masters, providing a deeper understanding of the history and culture preserved by the Vatican.
Guide coming soonVatican City Travel Safety
Vatican City image gallery
