Our first stop in Rome was Vatican City.  We were still jet-lagged from the flight, but found the energy to make it to our tour on time at 7:30 am sharp starting at the entrance to the Vatican.  Once we got there, we met our tour guide, Carl, and were equipped with headsets so we would be able to hear him throughout our time inside the Vatican.  Once inside, we had to go through a security check before we could be on our way.

Some of the outstanding things on our tour of the Vatican were the intricate ceiling designs and murals along all of the walls.  We also saw a variety of sculptures and statues, and intricately woven rugs. We were able to see the Pope’s quarters, and of course the highlight of the tour was seeing the Sistine Chapel.  The designs and aura of the Chapel were absolutely breath-taking, certainly an experience I will never forget. You can see the Sistine Chapel in the video below.

After the finishing up inside the Vatican museum, we were then taken next door to St. Peter’s Basilica, where we were able to experience the vast enormity of the church.  Carl took us through the different parts of the basilica where we saw where the previous Popes were tombed, and were even able to rub the foot of the Statue of St. Peter.  I think the greatest part of the experience, however, was being able to attend mass inside the basilica.

Intricate ceilings inside the Vatican Museum

St. Peter’s Basilica