When was the Vatican built?

Vatican City is the smallest city and country in the world with a rich history!

It’s no lie when they say Vatican City is the smallest city and country, being only 44 hectares which is only around one-eighth of Central Park in New York. Even though Vatican City has a 2000-year-old history, the city only gained independence in 1929!

There is a lot of history within Vatican City, but let’s get into some of the key highlights of the world’s smallest city!

The Vatican City’s history

Even though the city became a city-state in 1929, there is still a lot of history within the Vatican. The major attractions that lie here are hundreds of years old!

The Sistine Chapel is where the pope lives and where there are some incredible artworks. The Sistine Chapel was built between 1473 to 1481. Then from 1508 to 1512, was when Michelangelo painted the ceiling, which was shown to the public after he completed it.

From 1506 to 1626, was when St. Peter’s Basilica was built, the new Basilica that we see today after the old one was demolished in 1505.

Also in 1506, the Vatican Museums started being built, but it was only open to the public in 1771.

What to see in Vatican City

Though Vatican City may be the smallest in the world, there is still a lot you can see here!

St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica not only has famous artwork inside from Michelangelo and Bernini, but it is also the world’s largest Christian church! The Basilica is free to enter but be aware there will be a long queue to get inside.

Vatican Museums

There are over 70,000 paintings and sculptures you can see in the Vatican across over 50 galleries.

The Raphael Rooms are one of the main highlights to see in the Vatican Museums. There are four separate rooms with frescos that Raphael and his workshop painted.

The Bramante Staircase is a spiral staircase that will conclude your visit to the Vatican Museums. There are actually two staircases, but one isn’t for public viewing.

Sistine Chapel

As mentioned earlier, the Sistine Chapel is the official residence of the pope. However, the main highlight of the Sistine Chapel is the beautiful frescos that Michelangelo painted on the chapel’s ceiling.

A great way to learn more about the history of the Vatican is to join a guided tour! Have a tour guide show you around the city, including the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.