Friday - Vatican

We had an early start because we were going to the Vatican and we had a timed entry.  There was a bus strike for Friday so we had to go by taxi.  Luckily we did not have to pay for that.  Though Friday turned out to be a taxi day.  We got to the entrance of the Vatican where we picked up our portable sound system units (we have used these at every organized tour) and our guide, Federico. He made sure that we knew that it was not Fred but Fed.

Federico in front of the posters that showed the Sistine Chapel.  Since he would not be allowed to talk while in there they have set up all these sets of posters all over the courtyard so that guides could lecture their groups.  He had some very interesting information and he was an excellent guide.  After hearing the talk we went quickly though many of the museums before getting to the Chapel.

the walls and the ceilings were as ornate as all the art on the walks.  No matter where you look there is something amazing to see.  We did not need to have our passports with us to get into Vatican City.  There are something like 14 museums, 1,500 rooms and 5 miles of territory to cover.  Luckily we were not doing all that.  Federico had picked out some of his personal favorites to show us.

Then we went to the chapel.  Which was very crowded.  Wall to wall people.  Everyone looking up.  Guards all over saying "shhhh".  No talking, no photography.  I am glad that we had the lecture ahead of time.  I understood a lot more.  It was more than impressive.

Then we went to St Peter's Basilica 

This is San Pio Papa X 

We finished our tour 

Here is a map of Vatican State.

After the tour most of the Rick Steves people all went off to lunch together but we had already picked a place we wanted to try so we said good-bye to everyone and started the rest of wanderings.