The 23rd was a full day. Fortunately, we were given some tips from other backpackers that it's a must to purchase your tickets to the Vatican online before you go. Sure enough when we showed up, the lineup this Saturday was thousands of people long and we just walked on by. There is so much history and art in the Vatican that you need weeks to enjoy it, but majority of us were here for one main reason, the Sistine Chapel. Once inside, the hallways are long and covered in historic monuments, paintings, and sculptures. We are herded like cattle through these hallways following little arrows that direct us to our goal. Randi and I walked beside a tour guide and as he talked into his mic we were able to get the history lesson, but one stop to take a picture or tie your shoes and everyone is long gone. Too many people!! Finally we reached the Chapel where choir voices sang "shhhhhh" every 30 seconds. Trying to admire Michelagelos art work and listen to our tiny audio tour guide purchased at the start was almost impossible. Too many people!! The Sistine Chapel is really a must see and the art work is amazing, but it was time to move on.
From there we walked around the Vatican walls to St. Peter's square in front of the Basilica where the Pope does his public addresses. The square is huge! I over heard another guide saying that there will be over a hundred thousand people in the square when the Pope is scheduled for an appearance.
We walked down the street to the Castle of Angels, then to the Pantheon, and the to the fountain of Trevi. All three are massive in status and really have a historical affect on the city.
We finished the night off with some delicious Italian pasta and start again today at the Coliseum.
Ciao,
B & R