Rome - Day 2
A Rainy Journey to the Vatican: A Day of Walking and Discovery
November 21, 2023
Rain greeted me as I made my way toward the Vatican City, and while I’ll spare you the holy water jokes, it added a memorable layer to the experience. Determined to explore Rome on foot, I walked nearly 20 miles round trip—a choice I later questioned but won’t soon forget.
Morning Walk to the Vatican Museums
After enjoying a hearty breakfast at my hotel, I set off on my ambitious trek to the Vatican Museums. Along the way, I couldn’t help but laugh at my choice of attire: a bright Miami Dolphins rain poncho, probably making me the most conspicuous visitor in Rome that day!
One unexpected perk of the rainy weather was passing the Spanish Steps and finding them nearly empty. Without the usual crowds, I could fully appreciate the beauty of this 18th-century masterpiece, designed by Francesco de Sanctis. Standing alone on the steps made them feel even more timeless and serene.
The Vatican Museums: A Treasure Trove of Art and History
The Vatican Museums, one of the largest and most visited museum complexes in the world, house an incredible collection of art and artifacts spanning centuries. From Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring ceiling in the Sistine Chapel to the intricate tapestries and historical maps in the Gallery of Maps, the museums are a testament to human creativity and devotion.
I decided to take a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, and I’m so glad I did. The tour covered a vast amount of art and history in just a couple of hours. Without the expert guide, I’m sure I would have missed many treasures hidden within the vast halls. The sheer scale and beauty of the collection were overwhelming. As I walked through the galleries, it felt like navigating a series of expressways as visitors darted from one exhibit to the next. The art was everywhere—on the walls, ceilings, floors, and even on the backs of doors!
I spent several hours exploring the Museums, but even then, I felt like I could have stayed for days, uncovering more layers of history and beauty with each step.
Visiting St. Peter's Basilica: Awe-Inspiring Views and Sacred Beauty
In the early afternoon, I made my way to St. Peter's Basilica, and it truly took my breath away. Known as one of the largest and most impressive churches in the world, St. Peter’s is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and a spiritual center for millions of Catholics.
Climbing to the Top of the Dome
My visit began with a climb to the top of the iconic dome, designed by Michelangelo himself. The ascent was a bit challenging, but the reward was well worth it. From the summit, I was treated to a panoramic view of Vatican City and Rome, stretching out in all directions. The sight of the sprawling city from such a historic vantage point was nothing short of spectacular.
Exploring the Basilica's Interior
After descending, I spent several hours touring the interior of St. Peter’s Basilica. The sheer grandeur of the church was overwhelming. From the Pietà, Michelangelo’s renowned sculpture of the Virgin Mary holding the body of Christ, to the ornate altars and chapels, every corner of the basilica exuded spiritual significance and artistic brilliance. I wandered through the nave, gazing at the stunning mosaics and sculptures that adorn the space. By the time I finished my visit, it was early evening, and the quiet, sacred atmosphere of St. Peter’s left a lasting impression.
Navigating Back to My Hotel: An Evening Stroll through Rome
My goal was to return to the hotel before nightfall, but as you can tell from the photos, I was still at the Vatican well into the evening. With the sun setting and the streets of Rome beginning to glow under the soft evening lights, I started my journey back to the hotel.
After a quick and satisfying dinner, I couldn’t resist one last evening stroll. On my way, I stopped by the Trevi Fountain, which looked even more magical as the night cast a serene glow over its waters. It was the perfect way to end an unforgettable day in the Eternal City.
