Rome: Excursion to the Vatican Museums

Due to the recent death of the Pope and, until the time a new one is elected, by decision of the Vatican authorities, the Sistine Chapel will remain closed.

Your tour is still valid for entry to see other areas that are open in addition to viewing inside the Vatican Museums.

Begin a guide walk through the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel that will lead you straight inside St.

Peter’s Basilica, known to be the mother church of all Catholic churches and also the biggest.

Start your journey at the Vatican Museums where you will see Courtyard of Pinecones, Chiaramonti Museum, and Palazzo Belvedere which contains an incredible gathering of ancient sculpture including such well-known examples as Apollo, Laocoön, and the Belvedere Torso.

Go to the Tapestries Gallery where there are works made in the 16th century based on drawings by followers of Raphael.

After that, walk toward the Maps Gallery and the stunning Raphael Rooms built for Pope Julius II.

Next, see in the Sistine Chapel the breathtaking frescoes by Michelangelo- The Creation of Adam; The Last Judgment.

After touring the Sistine Chapel, walk right into St.

Peter's Basilica built over the grave of Apostle Peter the most trusted disciple of Christ.

This architectural masterpiece was finished in more than 120 years of construction with the help of celebrated architects from the times of Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Marvel at the detailed mosaics of the Vatican, view the tombs of all the popes, see the Holy Gates and Bernini’s beautiful altar.

Discover more of Michelangelo’s genius here – sculptor and architect – in one of the most highly-regarded places on earth.