Vatican City

Vatican City has been nicknamed “The Holy See” and houses about 800 residents, including priests, nuns, guards, dignitaries, and the Pope, who change at various times because of their roles and positions held. The original Vatican City spanned an area of approximately 17,000 square miles, but during the 20th century there was much conflict unifying the entire country and a majority of the Pope’s power was taken away. In 1929, the current space of Vatican City was officially established and now attracts millions of visitors every year.

St. Peter’s Square sits at the entrance to Vatican City, and was built between 1657 and 1667. Contrary to it’s name, St. Peter’s Square is actually a circle surrounded by 284 columns adorned with statues of 140 saints. In the center of the square is an obelisk, which is a tall four-sided monument with a pyramid top (similar to the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C.). The square is used for gatherings by hundreds and thousands of tourists and visitors who come to hear blessings from the Pope or participate in special masses on religious holidays.

The most important church in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica, is housed in Vatican City. It was built in 1506, and the architecture is admired by people from all over the world. It includes numerous altars and monuments, as well as Michelangelo’s Pieta and famous sculptures by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. From the top of the Basilica, a tourist can enjoy the best view of the entire city of Rome, Italy.

In addition to St. Peter’s Basilica, there are also numerous museums that house some of the most incredible art collections in the world.

http://www.aviewoncities.com/rome/vaticancity.htm - The link for the website, and also pictures of the sites mentioned above