"Vatican City" Vatican City by traveldave

Vatican City Travel Guide: 1,267 reviews and 3,878 photos

Vatican City is the world's smallest country, and is entirely surrounded by the city of Rome. It is the spiritual home of millions of the world's Roman Catholics. Despite its small size, it has its own post office (which issues Vatican stamps), currency, radio station, train station, and army, consisting of the Swiss Guards. The Lateran Treaty of 1929 gave the Pope full sovereignty over Vatican City, and recognized its independence.

There are only a little more than 800 inhabitants, and they consist of Vatican administrators. Vatican City contains the world's largest cathedral, Saint Peter's Basilica, and an impressive collection of art, which includes the Pietà by Michelangelo, as well as his ceiling in the Sistine Chapel.

There are no customs or immigration formalities, and visitors can just walk in and enjoy the art and architecture. People who visit at the right time may be able attend the weekly blessing given by Pope Benedict XVI.

Last visit to Vatican City: Jun 1982
Intro Updated Jun 22, 2012
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Reviews (5)

The Papal Blessing Things to Do (3)

The day I visited Vatican City just happened to be the day of the Papal Blessing, given by the late Pope John Paul II.... more travel advice

The Vatican Gardens Off The Beaten Path (1)

The grounds of Vatican City contain extensive parks called the Vatican Gardens. Covering 57 acres (23 hectares), they... more travel advice

Saint Peter's Basilica Things to Do (3)

Saint Peter's Basilica dominates Vatican City, as well as the skyline of Rome. It is one of the holiest Roman Catholic... more travel advice

Saint Peter's Square Things to Do (3)

Saint Peter's Square, or Piazza San Pietro, is a large open area located directly in front of Saint Peter's Basilica. It... more travel advice

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Written Sep 16, 2012

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Comments (25)

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Kuznetsov_Sergey Jan 11, 2008 at 11:56 AM

Yes, there is much to have a talk about Vatican! You refreshed my memories once again and made me think about next visit. Thanks David for the virtual tour!
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matcrazy1 Mar 31, 2007 at 9:12 AM

An interesting page again !
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LoriPori Mar 19, 2007 at 9:32 AM

Visiting The Vatican and its gardens must have been a wonderful experience for you Dave.
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deeper_blue Jul 5, 2004 at 3:42 PM

Great photos of the Vatican, cheers Dave
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olja1234 Jan 25, 2004 at 1:04 AM

Very nice page. Excellent photos.
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Ekahau Aug 15, 2003 at 7:59 PM

Great photo of the Sistine Chapel
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keeweechic Apr 22, 2003 at 8:51 PM

Thats an amazing view from the Sistine Chapel - how did I miss that. What perfect timing also - what an amazing experience to be there amongst the crowd for the mass.
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morgane1692 Nov 22, 2002 at 10:52 AM

jun'82?! then you witnessed a *different* Pope than we did, nov'99...but it was awesome, nonetheless...bitter cold outside, but awesome!
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sim1 Jul 27, 2002 at 9:37 PM

Beautiful page! Must feel special to see the pope here.
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yen_2 Jul 22, 2002 at 6:27 AM

I love to be in that St. Peter`s Square:)