Did You Know?

Did you know that Rome is famous for its mouthwatering cuisine? Italian staples like pasta, pizza, gelato, and espresso originated in Rome and have become beloved worldwide. Traditional Roman dishes include cacio e pepe (pasta with cheese and pepper) and supplì (fried rice balls with a gooey center of cheese).

Did you know that Rome has a unique water system known as aqueducts? In ancient times, Rome's aqueducts were engineering marvels that supplied the city with water from distant sources. Some of these aqueducts, such as the famous Aqua Virgo, still function today and provide water to modern-day Rome.

Did you know that Rome is home to the smallest country in the world? The Vatican City, an independent city-state, is located within Rome's boundaries. It is the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and is famous for St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, which houses Michelangelo's renowned frescoes.

Did you know that Rome is often called the "Eternal City"? This nickname reflects its rich history, which spans over 2,500 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Rome was the capital of the Roman Empire and played a significant role in shaping Western civilization.

Did you know that Rome has more than 900 churches? From grand basilicas to small chapels, Rome boasts a remarkable number of churches. They showcase a wide range of architectural styles, art, and religious significance, making them integral to the city's cultural and historical heritage.

Sistine Chapel

When we hear the name “Sistine Chapel” the first thing that comes to mind is Michelangelo, and vice versa. The chapel and the artist are bound in eternity in the human cultural mind.

Part of the buildings contained in the Vatican complex, the Sistine Chapel appears as an innocuous rectangle from the outside; one would never know looking at this very old, but decidedly plain building of what magical treasures of art lie within. Other famous artists beside Michelangelo painted parts of the interior, but his utterly incredible ceiling is known the world over, and his The Last Judgment, a mural-sized painting covering the entirety of the wall behind the altar stand out among the treasure trove of works.

The chapel’s original name was changed to “Sistine” in honour of Pope Sixtus IV who undertook the refurbishment of the space from 1477-80. Nearly 30 years later, Michelangelo applied his deft touch on the ceiling; from 1508-12 he painted The Last Judgement.

You may have seen the Sistine Chapel if you watched the 2019 film, “The Two Popes”; if you did, that is enough inspiration to visit Rome and marvel at it in person.

Vatican City Weather

Local Temp: 16.4℃ / 61.5℉

High: 17.7℃ / 63.9℉

Low: 14.6℃ / 58.3℉

Humidity: 82 %

Local Time: 10:21

Contact Information

Address:

Vatican City

Telephone: +390669881245

Website: www.museivaticani.va