One of the world's greatest artistic treasures, Sistine Chapel was originally called Capella Magna. The site takes its current name from Pope Sixtus IV, who restored the chapel between 1477 and 1480. The structure has long served as a place of both religious and functionary papal activity. It's the site of the papal conclave, the process by which a new pope is selected. The chapel's fame comes mainly from the frescoes decorating its interior. The ceiling, painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512, is the most notable feature and a cornerstone work of High Renaissance art. The ceiling's various elements form part of a larger decoration. The huge fresco entitled "The Last Judgment" is one of Michelangelo's greatest works. Botticelli, Ghirlandaio, and Raphael also contributed to the chapel's impressive interior. Skip the extremely long entry lines by booking a guided tour with the Vatican Museums ahead of time. Use our Vatican City route planner to arrange your visit to Sistine Chapel and other attractions in Vatican City.
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Sistine Chapel reviews
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I walked a very far distance to see the Sistine Chapel. Since I make use of a walking stick the walk was arduous but to see the Sistine Chapel in all its beautiful glory and to have this experience...
I walked a very far distance to see the Sistine Chapel. Since I make use of a walking stick the walk was arduous but to see the Sistine Chapel in all its beautiful glory and to have this experience... more »
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For those who dream of taking a picture of The Creation of Adam and The Final Judgement as a memory, you're out of luck. But I understand the rationale though. Being there in person is...
For those who dream of taking a picture of The Creation of Adam and The Final Judgement as a memory, you're out of luck. But I understand the rationale though. Being there in person is... more »
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Absolutely terrific. We did a small group tour & skipped the line. Our tour guide was great. Priceless antiquities of human history are in the Vatican. The imagination of the artists, the colors, their skills are on display throughout the buildings. Catholic or not, this should not be missed if in Rome.
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Stunning building. Guided tour was long. We had fast track and still had to queue for a queue to collect tickets. Then queue again inside for headsets. Amd again for a queue to enter the actual building. Very poor set up. Once your in its rammed with tourists and guides. In the Sistine Chapel you literally have such Short period of time. Can't take photos at all and can't talk! No word of a lie, you get told off. I mean it's a must see in Rome but wear flat shoes, don't take massive coats and take water. Book fast track, the queue for tickets was about 600 people deep. Nowhere to purchase anything and no seating at all.
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