keepcalmandcarryonbaggage: ROMA (Part 4 - The Vatican)I’m not Catholic, but a combination of n

keepcalmandcarryonbaggage:ROMA (Part 4 - The Vatican)I’m not Catholic, but a combination of news-worthy controversy and Dan Brown books helped ignite an interest in a visit to Vatican City, the holiest place on earth and the smallest country in the world (complete with largest Christian church!). But my real motivation was what I can now personally attest to be the greatest work of art ever created - Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. You won’t find pics of it on this blog as it was strictly not allowed. And shame on those fellow visitors who completely disrespected that request and proceeded to wander about with iPads facing up, snapping away. All I can say is that I had a neck-ache for days after viewing it - spending more than an hour with eye skyward trying in vain to consume every brilliant detail.There are some shots of some of the Vatican Museum (would love to see more of this first class collection but alas our time was limited), and of course St Peter’s - religious or not, this is a truly magical experience. Leave your cynicism at the doors (and impressive doors they are) and marvel in the craftsmanship, wealth and artistry that adorns every square inch of it. A highlight is one of Michelangelo’s first works (and most well known) - The Pieta, now behind bullet proof glass thanks to a maniac who decided it needed improvement when he attacked it with a hammer a couple of years ago.We didn’t spy the Pope, but we took advantage of a quiet, separated area reserved for prayer and sent a spiritual shout-out to Ann (Scott’s beloved Nana) who passed days before. -- source link

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