Vatican City: A Sanctuary of Painterly Grandeur! 🎨✨

#summervacay The world's smallest sovereign state delivers an immense sense of awe! Stepping into St. Peter's Basilica, I was incredibly fortunate to witness a Mass in progress, with a large procession of people raising statues of the Virgin Mary and crucifixes, circling the space. To then walk through the Holy Door, which only opens every 25 years, and stand in the very center of the Basilica, listening to the Gregorian chants and the powerful pipe organ, felt like experiencing a profound cultural resonance that transcended time. It was a moment that truly underscored the nobility and importance of faith. Separately, the Vatican Museums were an experience in themselves! Since I hadn't booked ahead, I queued for two hours to get in, and yes, the crowds were absolutely massive. I couldn't linger too long in each exhibition room, simply following the flow of people. Despite the throng, the most lasting impressions were the diverse forms of divine statues and sculptures, and, of course, Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes. #italy #vaticancity #westernart #stpetersbasilica #vaticanmuseums #michelangelo #faith #artandhistory #travelitaly #europeantravel 🇮🇹🇻🇦