The Vatican might be one of the smallest independent nations in the world, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t a ton to see. If you don’t have time to explore all that this tiny unique and historic area has to offer, be sure not to miss one thing, the Sistine Chapel. The Sistine Chapel is not to be missed, as it is full of treasures. Ultimate Excursions invites you to take a closer look at this amazing site and its history.
One of the most famous aspects of the Sistine Chapel has to be the beautifully painted frescoes of Michelangelo. This great master was asked to paint the 12,000 square foot ceiling by the then reigning Pope. This has to be the crowning glory of all Michelangelo’s achievements when it comes to his paintings. The great frescoes were painted from 1508 until 1512. Although they have been restored over the years, they are centuries old after all, they still hold their resplendency of color, and their grand depictions.
Another of the great masters to be represented in the Sistine Chapel is Raphael. His paintings and tapestries are shown in the appropriately named Raphael Rooms. Featured here are his key paintings including the Coronation of the Virgin, a Transfiguration, and the Madonna of Foligno. Also shown are his tapestries that symbolize the lives of St Peter and St Paul. Located in the Segnatura is one of Raphael’s greatest works, the School of Athens. It showcases the great scientific achievements from classical Greece. He took it upon himself to change some of the faces of these times, and paint them with his counterparts such as Plato having the face of Leonardo da Vinci.
Exploring the Sistine Chapel could take you all day, and that isn’t just because of the crowds. There are plenty of rooms that display great art, statues, and books that have been collected over the centuries. Raphael and Michelangelo are two that you simply cannot pass up. If there are other parts of the Sistine Chapel that you want to see make sure that they are open. Some of the museums are closed and the only way to find out is in the display entrance hall when you arrive.
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