Join us on this special day-long journey, a pilgrimage to the most important Basilicas of the Vatican and an exploration of the famous works of the masters such as Michelangelo and Raphael in the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
Explore one of world’s most fascinating Meccas – Vatican City -- as you stroll the Vatican Museums which house over 9 miles of the most extensive collection of art in the world. Experience Michelangelo’s famous Creation of Adam with your own eyes in the Sistine Chapel or wonder at the works of the young genius Raphael in Raphael’s Rooms. You will visit many wings of the museum including the Ancient Greek and Roman sculpture wing, the Hall of Maps, the Gallery of the Candelabra and the Hall of Tapestries.
For the morning's grand finale we will Skip the Line via the Vatican Museums into St. Peter's Basilica, the largest Church in Christianity, guardian of St. Peter's tomb, Michelangelo’s Pietà, and Bernini’s immense baldachin.
After an ample break for lunch and a rest, you will go on to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore which boasts exuberant mannerist sculptural decorations, stunning 5th century mosaics, enchanting frescoes and Bernini’s tomb.
You won't miss the chance to see the Holy Stairs -- the twenty-eight white marble steps said to be tread by Christ during his passion. You will then visit the imposing Lateran Palace and Basilica of Saint John Lateran, the Cathedral of Rome and traditional seat of the Pope which was built by Constantine even before Saint Peter's.
Our next stop is the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where lie the relics of Saint Paul and 5th Century mosaics shimmer alongside brilliantly colored frescoes.
Pilgrim these mystical temples of worship and enchanting museums which celebrate the Emperors, Saints, Popes, Artists and millions of people who have tread their ground and wondered at their splendor for thousands of years.