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Friday, July 31, 2009

The Final Tour - Rome


Posted Friday, July 31, 2009.

St. Peter's Basilica

How fitting that our final tour on this trip would be Vatican City consisting of St. Peter's Square, St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Museum.

Vatican City, comprised of 110 acres, sits in the middle of Rome - near the Tiber River. It is both the smallest and the wealthiest country, in the world.

No photos are allowed in the Sistine Chapel or in the Tombs. The Sistine Chapel ceiling is an elaborate mural of frescos by Michelangelo.

The tombs contain the remains of popes - including Pope John Paul II, one of the most beloved popes. His tomb,adorned with several flower arrangements, is guarded by two guards.

Us in St. Peter's Square in front of St. Peter's Basilica.

Nero's fountain - also called his bathtub - in the Vatican Museum. Legend states that Nero would have the fountain filled with goat's milk so that he could bathe .....when children and the elderly did not have enough to eat.

The mosaic tiled floor is over 2,000 years old.

Picture in mosaic tile in Vatican Museum.



The High Altar in St. Peter's Basilica.


The Papal Canopy over the altar is of bronze by Bernini in 1633. It is located over the tomb of St. Peter.



One of many confessionals located in St. Peter's Basilica.


Vatican City is guarded by the Swiss Guards - 100 in number. They must be Catholic males and must take a vow to give their life for the Pope, if necessary.

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