Vatican City

Truly a walled city state within the medieval walls of Rome, Vatican City is the world’s smallest independent state by size (110 acres) and density (population: 800). All around its gates,

you can see the greater arms of Rome embracing it,


shielding it…


But as soon as you step past the massive columned entry

and the ubiquitous Pontifical Swiss Guard…

you know you’re not in Rome anymore. Welcome to St. Peter’s Square:

Let’s go inside St. Peter’s Basilica:

This is my second time here, and I have to say I’m just as moved as the first time. For this art history student, it’s a total head rush to see Michelangelo’s Pietà in person. Sculpted out of Carrara marble, it is the only piece of art Michelangelo ever signed (his signature is found on the sash across Mary’s chest).

I’ll let the rest of the photos speak for my experience inside this basilica:

I don’t know that being in such a place of history deepens your faith or makes you question why you have none. What I do know, however, is that we’re all so small in the scheme of things…

2 Comments

  1. April White

    That was my comment signed Anonymous.
    Using a new notebook computer.

  2. Anonymous

    Here’s a place I’ve been. Went through this whole place with a registered or certified art historian giving the tour. It was a lot to take in, I must say. Great photos, as always.

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