The Vatican Museums: Must-See Exhibits
As a travel writer, I have had the opportunity to visit some of the most famous and breathtaking museums in the world. But one place that truly left me in awe was The Vatican Museums. Located within the Vatican City, these museums are a must-see for any art and history lover. With over 7 kilometers of galleries and over 70,000 works of art, it can be overwhelming to decide what to see. But fear not, as I have compiled a list of the must-see exhibits at The Vatican Museums that you shouldn’t miss out on.
The Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is perhaps the most renowned and iconic part of The Vatican Museums. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the museums. As you enter the chapel, you will be mesmerized by the stunning frescoes on the ceiling and walls, painted by the great Michelangelo. The most famous of these frescoes is the “Creation of Adam” which depicts God giving life to Adam. The intricate details and vibrant colors of the frescoes will leave you in awe. Keep in mind that there is no photography allowed in the Sistine Chapel, so take your time to soak in the beauty of this masterpiece.
Raphael’s Rooms
Located within the Apostolic Palace, Raphael’s Rooms are a series of four interconnected rooms that were painted by the renowned artist Raphael and his assistants. The rooms are adorned with intricate frescoes depicting various scenes from the Bible and classical mythology. The most famous of these frescoes is “The School of Athens” which portrays a gathering of great philosophers and scientists. The attention to detail and the use of perspective in these paintings is truly impressive.
The Gallery of Maps
One of the most fascinating parts of The Vatican Museums is the Gallery of Maps. This long corridor is lined with 40 frescoes depicting maps of Italy and its regions, painted in the 16th century. These maps were commissioned by Pope Gregory XIII and provide a glimpse into the geographical knowledge of that time. It is incredible to see how accurately these maps were drawn without any modern technology.
The Pio-Clementine Museum
The Pio-Clementine Museum is home to some of the most famous sculptures in the world, including the iconic “Laocoön and His Sons” and the “Apollo Belvedere”. This museum also houses ancient Roman and Greek sculptures, as well as a collection of Egyptian artifacts. The highlight of this museum is the stunning Round Room, which is adorned with intricate mosaics and houses a colossal statue of Emperor Augustus.
The Gregorian Egyptian Museum
For those interested in ancient Egyptian history, The Gregorian Egyptian Museum is a must-visit. This museum houses a vast collection of Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and hieroglyphic inscriptions. The highlight of this museum is the “Sarcophagus of Seti I”, which is a beautifully decorated coffin of an ancient Egyptian Pharaoh.
The Pinacoteca Vaticana
Art enthusiasts will be delighted to visit the Pinacoteca Vaticana, which houses a collection of over 460 paintings from the 12th to the 19th century. The collection includes works by renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Titian. The highlight of this museum is the “Transfiguration” by Raphael, which was his last painting before his death.
Practical Information
The Vatican Museums can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid long lines, I highly recommend purchasing tickets online in advance. You can also opt for a guided tour which will provide you with more in-depth information about the exhibits. Keep in mind that the museums are closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of the month when they offer free entry.
As you can see, The Vatican Museums have a lot to offer, and these are just a few of the must-see exhibits. I highly recommend spending at least half a day exploring these museums, but if time permits, I suggest spending a full day to fully appreciate the vast collection. Trust me, it will be a memorable experience that you won’t regret.
