Vatican Tourist Highlights
For tourists going to the Vatican a must see is the Saint Peters Basilica and its dome. Worshippers are allowed to enter the amazing area at any time and masses are held daily. You can enjoy the view looking down on the basilica from the galley inside the dome and if the 320 step stairway is not for you, then there is always the elevator to use.
Many of the popes and a few royals are buried in the Vatican Grottoes which are located in the level below St. Peter’s. During a tour you can see the Roman “city of the dead” which is known as ancient Necropolis. This is located below the Grottoes and excavations of St. Peters’ tomb are there.
Another place to see when visiting the Vatican, of equal importance to St. Peter’s, is the Sistine Chapel. It was built between 1471 an 1484 during the reign of Sixtus IV della Rovere, for whom it was also named after. With its many well-preserved sarcophagi, catacomb artifacts and scenes from the Old Testament, you will be sure to find the Christian Museum of great interest.