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Destination of the Day
Vatican City, Italy
Happy Easter! If you're lucky enough to be in Italy today, you won't see the famous bunny or go for an Easter egg hunt. But Easter in Italy is a huge holiday, second only to Christmas in its importance for Italians. And there's no better place to celebrate than Vatican City. The world's smallest city-state, it is geographically located within Rome, but not actually part of it. Whether you're a devout Catholic or just have a passion for impressive architecture and elaborate ceremonies, a visit to the Vatican is a great addition to your trip to Rome. Here are the top things to do.
See Art and Former Popes at Saint Peter's Basilica
Built over what is considered the site of St. Peter's martyrdom, Saint Peter's Basilica is the largest church in the world, a treasure trove of art, and the resting place of many former popes. Visitors flock to Saint Peter's Basilica during religious holidays, including Easter when the pope performs special masses. You'll enter the basilica through Saint Peter's Square, designed by Roman artist Gianlorenzo Bernini in 1656.
Explore the Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani) is a massive complex that contains an impressive art collection spanning 3,000 years—from Classical to modern eras. It's here that you can see the Sistine Chapel featuring Michelangelo's renowned frescoed ceiling, as well as the Raphael Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello), once the private apartments of Pope Julius II.
Wander Through the Vatican Gardens
Covering over half of the land area of Vatican City, the Vatican Gardens are dotted with monuments and buildings that date back to the ninth century, including the Vatican Radio Station, the Our Lady of Lourdes grotto, and numerous sculptures and fountains. Originally established during the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the gardens owe their current look to Pope Nicholas III, who enclosed the area and planted orchards when the papal residence returned to the Vatican from the Lateran Palace.
Your Packing List
Early spring is the most unpredictable, therefore you should anticipate the possibility of rain, particularly in April. Be sure to bring an umbrella, as well as a waterproof jacket.
The weather begins to warm up after Easter, but as with most seasons in Rome, layering is the name of the game. Pack clothes you can easily remove, like a lightweight jacket and scarf.
Note that visitors who are not dressed in the appropriate attire will not be allowed entry into the basilica or the Vatican Museums (no shorts, mini-skirts, or sleeveless shirts).
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