We started bright and early (the day was bright -- we were a little dull) at 6:00 am. We walked about a mile to the Metro station, rode for 7 stops, then got off and met our group for our guided tour of Vatican City (which means we get to add another country we've visited!). That makes 20 foreign countries I've seen so far.
The tour lasted around three hours, including some Vatican museums (home to several amazing paintings, sculptures, etc.), the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica (the largest Christian church in the world, and home to the remains of St. Peter, the first Pope).
Even though we only saw a small portion of Vatican City, it was overwhelming and quite beautiful. I almost hurt myself craning my neck around to see everything on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. And of course, St. Peter's also houses Michelangelo's "La Pieta," the only sculpture he ever signed.
Even for me, someone who is not Catholic, it was certainly an amazing experience. The history and political power coming from these buildings are breathtaking, not to mention the religious leadership and artistic masterpieces. It's certainly something that everyone should experience at least once, if possible.
Below are several photos: (1) a bronze statue of Hercules -- there aren't many bronze statues left from early Roman history; (2) a ceiling from one of the great halls; (3) La Pieta; (4) the dome of St. Peter's; and (5) a beautiful tapestry version of the Last Supper.
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