How to Enjoy the Vatican Museums
The museums of the Vatican contain some of the most important and well-known artwork and relics in the world. The various collections include works by Giotto, Bellini, da Vinci, Raphael, Botticelli and even Michelangelo’s masterpiece fresco on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. This massive complex of museums can take numerous visits to fully appreciate. Use this article as a primer for your visit to the Vatican museums.
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Instructions
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See the Sistine Chapel. If you go to the museums for only one reason, it should be to see the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. This breathtaking fresco is considered by many to be Michelangelo’s finest work and was restored to its original brilliance in the 1980s. Depictions showing the Creation of the World, the Fall of Man and other biblical subjects are divided among 33 separate panels. As an added bonus, the walls of the chapel hold frescos by some of the finest artists of the 15th and 16th century, such as Ghirlandaio and Signorelli.
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Visit the Raphael Rooms. Located on the upper floor of the complex, the area known as the Raphael Rooms once served as part of Pope Julius II’s private apartments. Commissioned by the Pope to redecorate four of the rooms, thus replacing works by earlier artists, Raphael began work in 1508. After his death in 1520, work continued and was completed by his pupils in 1524. This body of work eventually established Raphael's reputation in Rome.
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Explore the Egyptian Museum. The Egyptian Museum contains a collection which was mostly gathered during excavation projects in the 19th and 20th century. Visitors will find genuine Egyptian statues, mummies and even a massive granite statue of Queen Mutuy, which dates to the 13th century.
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Tour the Gallery of Maps. One of the most unique galleries in the complex, the Gallery of Maps is located on the upper floor, near the Raphael Rooms. 16th century cartographer Ignazio Danti created incredibly detailed frescoes on the walls, depicting 40 maps of the Church’s territories. One of the best examples is the map showing the Siege of Malta.
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Tips & Warnings
Museum audio guides are offered in 8 languages.
Walking to the Sistine Chapel from the main entrance will take approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
The complex offers a restaurant, cafeteria and gift shop for visitors.
A selection of guided tours is available to groups.
Admittance is free on the last Sunday of each month.
Tickets must be used on the date of purchase.
The Vatican Museums attract more than 4 million visitors every year. Prepare for crowds during your visit.
Proper attire is required to gain admittance to the museums.
Large bags, luggage and backpacks must be checked at the cloakroom.
The museums are closed on various dates due to special or church events. Check the website prior to planning your visit.
The museum strictly enforces one-way traffic in the museum.
