Italy Trip 2024 - Vatican City and Castle Sant’ Angelo

Another sunny day in Rome. We got up very early for a failed attempt at using a bus route to the Vatican Museum… gave up and took a cab and still 4th in line for the 8am ticket slots we had. WOW the people! So so crowded. But Craig had a plan (of course). We got through security and hustled right through the entire museum without looking at anything and straight to the Sistine Chapel. We were able to sit and absorb it with just a few people. Later in the morning, as we reversed course and went through the rest of the museum, the Sistine Chapel was so full we could hardly walk through to get to the exit we wanted. Some pics attached - impossible to say what was liked best - such an incredible place.

St Peter’s plaza and Basilica was also packed, but the line through security moves pretty quickly. Many important statues / Chapels / frescos / paintings / main altar are under tarp or netting in preparation for the Jubilee Year which begins December 24th. Understandable but a little disappointing. Jacob, however was in awe and that was really fun! Craig and Jacob climbed the cupola to the top - Marge said once in a lifetime was enough LOL and sat that one out.

We walked down the main road from the Vatican to Castle Sant’Angela. We hadn’t been inside before as it is from a later time period (started as Emperor Hadrians Mausoleum in the 100’s AD , a military fortress in the 400s AD, and finally residence for popes in the 14th century). It was wonderful. Lots of ancient architectural pieces museum style along the corridors. Stunning views from the upper levels, gorgeously decorated ceilings and walls in Pope Clemente’s quarters. It was used as a prison by popes in the Middle Ages and executions were held here - so not an entirely fabulous history. Well worth the visit.

Cab ride back to our neighborhood and dinner at a sidewalk cafe. Tomorrow is Mamertine Prison, the forum and a tour of the attic of the colosseum. Blessings and good night! PB, Margery and Jacob