Papal Audience 

We started the day early, and by 7:30 we were heading towards Vatican City. We were going to the Papel audience. Reaching the gates to the city, we found it already crowded with many types of people, pilgrims, brides, tourists, and many others who wished to see the Pope. The admission line stretched back out of the city and into the Street. It was interesting to see the Swiss guard stationed, along with the various police forces from across Rome to direct security and traffic. The Audience itself was only about 40 minutes. The Pope gave a blessing, and then it was interpreted and summarized by representatives from most of the major languages in the Catholic world. Afterward, a proverb was read, then the Pope went around to as many people as he could to bless them. What an incredible, and powerful experience. The combination of so many peoples and cultures under one umbrella, with everyone peacefully interacting in the presence of the Holy leader is truly awe-inspiring.  

 

Vatican Museum 

Next, we took a tour of the Vatican Museum’s Incredible collection of artworks collected by the Papacy. It is a tour through the history of the Roman Catholic Empire, starting in Greek and Roman times, and ending with the reign of the Popes as Kings. The History of The Church was laid out in sculptures, tapestries, paintings, and monuments found in excavations across Europe and beyond. One of the most impressive hallways contained one of the first collections of highly accurate maps that detailed many areas in and around Italy. 

Sistine Chapel: 

At the Sistine Chapel, we were able to experience some of the world’s most famous pieces of art. It is most famous for its breathtaking ceiling painted by Michelangelo. This was the only part of the tour that we were not allowed to take pictures of because of its immense religious significance. It serves as the site where cardinals gather to elect the new Pope. Additionally, it is used to host religious ceremonies and is a place of worship. The ceiling depicted various scenes from the Book of Genesis including The Creation of Adam, The Creation of Eve, and The Last Judgement. The paintings were unbelievable and filled with detail, vibrant colors, and emotion. The Chapel’s architecture is simple yet stunning. It’s high vaulted ceiling and rectangular structure provide an ideal setting for the appreciation of the art. Seeing images of the chapel online is one thing but experiencing it within the walls is something we will never forget. 

 

St Peter’s Basilica 

The last step of our tour brought the class to St. Peter’s Basilica. This Basilica featured many grand mosaics and sculptures along with shrines to several popes, including Pope John Paul II. The size and openness of the basilica were very different from what had been the standard throughout the rest of the tour. St. Peter’s Basilica was built as a testament to the strength and power of the Catholic church, and this was noticeable in its size and ornate design. The large bronze features, massive mosaics and sculptures, and marble columns dwarfed everyone inside.