A papal residence for over five centuries, these museums house the largest single collection in Europe. In fact it has recently been calculated that if you spent one minute in front of each single piece it would take twelve years to get through this network of palaces, courtyards and chapels.
If you do not happen to have twelve years on your hands then let our expert guide take you through its highlights in our 2 ½ tour.
Michelangelo’s famous ceiling soars high above your head whilst the works of all the leading fifteenth century painters adorn the walls. Our expert guide explains the intrigues behind Michelangelo’s commission and interprets the symbolism woven into its images. This visit includes the Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo's Ceiling and the Last Judgment, and the walls frescoed by Botticelli, Perugino, Rosselli, Pinturicchio and Ghirlandaio.
It also includes the world's most famous collection of ancient Greek and Roman sculpture (with the Laocoon Group, the enigmatic Torso of Belvedere, a huge 1st century BC bronze statue of Hercules and mad Emperor Nero's own bath!): the amazing galleries and the Raphael Rooms, with the School of Athens and many other frescoes by Raphael. You will learn about the ancient legends painted in the frescoes, such as Emperor Constantine's conversion to Christianity after the bloody battle against Massenzius
TOURING TIME: 4 hrsWHEN: at your convenience
MEETING POINT: Agreed meeting point: Hotel, Port of Civitavecchia or the S. Peters Train Station.
COST: 60 Euro an hour maxim of 4 people
ENTRANCE FEES: Not Included
TRANSPORT COST: 40 Euro per hour if you request a car
(taxis can be taken in between walking).If your request to be picked up at the Port of Civitavecchia an additional transfer fee.