Sistine Chapel

One of the most precious treasures of Vatican City is the Sistine Chapel. It is located to the right of St. Peter's Basilica. It was built between 1471 and 1484, in the time of Pope Sixtus IV, to whom it owes its name. Designed by the architect Giovanni d'Dolci, it is world famous for the site where official ceremonies and the conclave are held.

The Sistine Chapel is one of the most famous and beautiful works of art in the world. It is the chapel where the Pope and his entourage hold the most important liturgical celebrations, and where the cardinals meet in conclave to elect a new Pope1. The chapel is best known for Michelangelo's frescoes, which decorate the ceiling and back wall with scenes from the Bible, such as the Creation, the Fall, the Flood and the Last Judgment2. The chapel also contains frescoes by other famous artists, such as Botticelli, Perugino and Ghirlandaio, which decorate the walls with stories from the lives of Moses and Jesus. The chapel is part of the Vatican Museums, and you need a ticket to visit it. It is advisable to buy your ticket online in advance to avoid the long queues3. You must also wear appropriate clothing, covering your shoulders and knees, and be respectful in the chapel, which is a sacred place. You are not allowed to take photographs or film in the chapel, and you must be quiet so as not to disturb other visitors and the guards.

In fact, you are not allowed to take photos inside. But there are surprisingly many in this highlight. Still worth a visit. Really interesting, especially when you know how it all came about and how long it took.