Vatican in the Jubilee Year｜Look Up to See the True Definition of a Masterpiece Ceiling

🇻🇦On just 0.44 square kilometers of land, this place houses the world's largest church and most opulent artworks – welcome to Vatican City.

2025 marks an extraordinary year for Vatican City as it coincides with the Catholic Jubilee Year, when the Holy Door opens once every 25 years. Pilgrims from around the globe are flocking to Rome for this sacred event to confess, pray, and pass through the Holy Door – the atmosphere is absolutely awe-inspiring!

After 12 years since my last visit in 2013, I've returned to Vatican City in 2025. Here stands St. Peter's Basilica, the world's largest church. Visiting isn't just about architecture; it's a spiritual journey.

📍St. Peter's Basilica
✨Admission: Free entry🆓
▫️Security checks take long; skip-the-line tip: arrive at 7am or after 4pm when crowds thin.

✨Opening hours:
Apr-Sep: 7:00-19:00
Oct-Mar: 7:00-18:30

✨Dome climb experience:
▫️Stairs ticket €8: 551 narrow spiral steps
▫️Elevator ticket €10: Saves 320 steps, still requires 231 steps to reach viewing platform
📸 Photo ops: Panoramic views of key-shaped square + Rome from the dome

✨Three treasures of the basilica:
①Pietà sculpture:
Michelangelo's masterpiece at age 23 in the left chapel, depicting Virgin Mary cradling Jesus' body – serene, sorrowful yet tender. Mary's expression transcends pain, showing quiet acceptance of fate.
②Bronze Baldacchino:
The 30m-tall bronze canopy over the main altar features four spiral columns inspired by Jerusalem's Temple, topped with papal symbols of keys and crown representing divine authority.
③Chair of St. Peter:
More than a chair, it's the spiritual foundation of Catholicism.

✨Transport tips:
▫️10-min walk from Ottaviano metro station (Line A)
▫️Bus 64 from Roma Termini (beware pickpockets!)
▫️Recommended: Roma Pass including transport

✨Important notes:
①Dress code applies (no sleeveless/tank tops or shorts)
②Opens at 7am; arrive before 8am to avoid crowds
③Dome climb offers spectacular views but requires stamina
④Wednesday might feature Papal Mass!