The Vatican and Vatican Museums are one of the most essential stops on any trip to Rome. Tickets to the museums and information about special events and lectures are available online through the Vatican Museum's website.
History
The first Vatican Museum was founded in the 16th century by Pope Julius II, and consisted only of sculptures. Since then, popes have commissioned works by Michelangelo and Raphael.
Features
The Vatican Museums are home to some of the world's most treasured masterpieces, including the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Stanze and works from Greek and Roman antiquity.
Cost
Regular admission to the Vatican Museums is 14 Euros, 8 Euros for children and students and you can receive free admission on the last Sunday of the month. Tours are usually 25 to 35 Euros per person.
Tours
You can receive guided tours, usually lasting 2 to 3 hours, of the Vatican Museums along with the Sistine Chapel or Saint Peter's Basilica, or of the Vatican Gardens.
Considerations
The Vatican Museums are usually closed on the first three Sundays of the month, as well as during most Catholic holidays.
