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Reviews Vatican City

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When visiting Rome, take the opportunity to also visit Vatican City. This small city-state holds an immense amount of treasures, beautiful buildings and artifacts worth exploring, especially if you are intrigued by rich history, stunning art, and spiritual significance.

Join one of the many tour groups or find your own way about Vatican City. With the Nova Circle app you will be guided by your friends to the best attractions – perhaps instead of the typical Vatican tours, whatever is your preference. Download the app and explore the marvels of Vatican City.
Reviews Vatican City
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The history of Vatican City

Vatican City is situated within the heart of Rome, and is the smallest independent state in the world by both area and population. It was established in 1929 by the Lateran Treaty between the Holy See and Italy, and serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.

The city-state is of profound religious significance, being the residence of the Pope and the site of centuries-old spiritual leadership.

Religious and cultural importance

As the epicenter of the Roman Catholic Church, Vatican City holds immense religious and cultural significance. It is a symbol of the church's historical legacy and its global influence on billions of followers. The Vatican also plays a crucial role in global diplomacy and cultural preservation.

Plan your own Vatican tour with the help of the Nova Circle app. Save time by accessing tips and recommendations that are relevant for you, instead of scrolling through reviews from hundreds of strangers on the internet. Just download the app to get started.

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Famous attractions

There are many famous attractions worth seeing when visiting the Vatican. At the heart of the city-state is St. Peter's Basilica, which is one of the largest and most revered churches in Christianity. An early morning tour here will allow you to experience its majestic beauty with fewer crowds.

The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are home to an expansive array of art and historical artifacts, and are generally considered a must-visit. The Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo’s famous ceiling, draws massive crowds daily. An early tour guided by a knowledgeable guide can enrich your experience and provide interesting stories and insights.

The Raphael Rooms are known for their stunning Renaissance frescoes painted by Raphael, a highlight for any art enthusiast.

The Vatican Gardens offer a quieter, more reflective environment. They span nearly half of the entire territory and are accessible through guided tours, allowing you a peaceful walk in the middle of bustling Rome.

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A unique atmosphere

Vatican City during the early hours offers a unique atmosphere, and an early morning tour can help avoid the midday rush and summer heat. As the museum opens, the galleries gradually fill with tourists from around the world. Guided tours are particularly popular, as they offer a structured exploration while managing to navigate through the crowded spaces efficiently.

Small group tours are highly recommended as they tend to offer a more intimate and engaging experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace without the overwhelming presence of massive crowds. 

Tips for visitors

Buy tickets in advance: To save time and streamline your entry, it is advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially for the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

Dress code: A strict dress code is enforced, especially in St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, so dress modestly.

Metro line: The Rome Metro line has a stop close to Vatican City, making it accessible for those preferring public transportation.

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Discover Vatican City with the Nova Circle app

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Frequently asked questions – Reviews Vatican City

Vatican City offers a wealth of cultural and spiritual experiences. From the awe-inspiring beauty of St. Peter's Basilica to the intricate frescoes of the Sistine Chapel, there is much to explore.

The Vatican Museums house an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts, which can be best appreciated with a guided tour to provide all the details and historical context.

Yes, Vatican City is an independent city-state. It was established as an independent sovereign entity in 1929 with the signing of the Lateran Treaty between the Holy See and Italy.

Vatican City is the smallest country in the world and serves as the administrative and spiritual capital of the Roman Catholic Church, as well as the residence of the Pope.

When visiting Vatican City, adhering to the dress code is important, especially when entering sacred spaces like St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. The dress code generally prohibits sleeveless blouses, short skirts, shorts, and hats for both men and women. Jeans are acceptable as long as they are not ripped or overly casual. Dressing modestly is a sign of respect in this significant religious area.

Papal Audiences are held on most Wednesdays when the Pope is in Rome, starting at around 10:00 AM. These gatherings take place either in St. Peter's Square or in the Paul VI Audience Hall, depending on the weather and the number of attendees.

It is highly recommended to check the Vatican’s official schedule and to buy tickets well in advance, as these events can draw large crowds. Joining a tour group can sometimes simplify the process of attending a Papal Audience.