While many people know that the Vatican is a tiny country, there are actually many vatican city facts that you might not know. The smallest independent state in the world, the Vatican has its own post office, telephone system, banking system, and astronomical observatory. The city is only a small portion of the size of Central Park in New York. This city is home to one of the largest collections of art in the world, which would cover four times the size of the city walls. The city is home to the largest Roman Catholic church in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Vatican is also home to the pope’s body guards, the Swiss Guard, which wear uniforms designed by Raphael. One of the most popular sculptures in the Vatican is the Pieta, a statue of Mary and Jesus. This piece of art is said to have been inspired by Michelangelo, who overheard someone talking about it and decided to etch his name on Mary’s sash.
If you’re planning a trip to the Vatican, it’s important to understand what this tiny nation is all about. Though it’s small in size, the Vatican City has many attractions to offer. Its history and culture are truly unique, and it’s worth a visit. Once you learn all about Vatican City, you’ll be more inclined to visit it yourself. And who can blame you? Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the city’s rich culture, which includes art, history, and more!
Italy has more UNESCO world heritage sites than any other country, including the Vatican City. The Vatican City is filled with famous works of art, including those by Michelangelo and Raphael. And it’s also home to the Vatican Museums, which consistently rank among the top ten most visited museums in the world. Other sites of interest in the Vatican include the Pio Clementino Museum, the Gregorian Egyptian Museum, and the Spiral Staircase.
The Swiss Guard is an elite military organisation consisting of one hundred and thirty-five personnel, and the Vatican serves as their home base. All of its members are required to adhere to the Catholic faith and complete their initial military instruction in Switzerland. Since the year 1506, the Swiss Guards have been responsible for protecting the Pope’s body. In contrast to the vast majority of monarchs, the Pope in the Catholic Church is chosen by the College of Cardinals. And despite the fact that the majority of the world’s monarchs are based on hereditary succession, the Pope is regarded as the most powerful person in the Vatican.
The basilica is home to over a hundred different burial sites. There are several tombs in the area, and 91 of them belong to previous Popes. In addition, there is an obelisk located in St. Peter’s Square. Emperor Caligula was responsible for transporting this 350-ton obelisk from Egypt to Rome. This structure is regarded as one of the wonders of the world, and it is a well-known tourist destination. Additionally, it is the location of the Vatican’s police force, the Swiss Guard.