Rome Part 3 - The Vatican

Our visit to Vatican City, St Peter’s Basilica and St Peter’s Square was memorable in a different way to our visit to all the historic ruins. When we entered through some long narrow tunnels from where we were dropped off, which tunnels thankfully had moving platforms like at some airports (we were by then somewhat tired), we noticed there were some refugees/ gypsies asleep or begging. One young mother with two very young children was busking, playing a piano accordion. We found out later that Pope Francis had decreed that all who come to the Vatican must be accepted as pilgrims, no matter whether they are Catholic or not. Accommodation and showers and other facilities have been set up in the name of Mother Therese for any of the large influx of refugees who wish to accept that support. The ones in the tunnels apparently have declined them. 

After a casual lunch in one of the Vatican shops, we then entered the vast St Peter’s Square, only to see a long, long queue of people waiting for a chance to enter and view the Basilica. We joined at the end of the queue. It was really really hot, the sun was beating down on our heads, and we stood and stood. After 45 minutes we were still only about a quarter of the way along, but I could not stand any more - I felt quite dizzy - and some others in the group felt the same. Our very supportive tour leader took us to a shady spot and came back for us about 45 minutes later, when the group was fairly close to the front of the queue. As was the case for the Forum, we went through metal detectors and had our baggage X-rayed.  

Finally we entered the Basilica, and all I can say is Wow! It was certainly a lofty, beautiful, awe-inspiring piece of architecture, built to symbolise and celebrate the people’s beliefs and to encourage worship. I discovered that this basilica is the reason why there are no tall buildings in Rome. No-one is allowed to build anything that is of a height equal to or greater than the height of the basilica, out of respect.

The following photos show St Peter’s Square and the long queues, and then inside the basilica. Notice the statue of St Peter whose feet people can touch and at whose feet they can pray, after entering a special controlled line, as well as the mummy of a former pope (I think, if my memory serves me correctly). The body is wearing a death mask. The photos are in a slightly odd order because the computer has woven together my photos taken with my camera (the outdoors photos, which were actually taken first) and those taken inside the basilica with my phone. I have no control over that, unfortunately.

I cannot begin to imagine how challenging it must be for the tens of thousands of people who fill the square to see the Pope and hear his message, and sometimes have to stand there for hours, especially if they have children with them. Incidentally, we also saw the humble place in which the Pope has chosen to live, but my photos do not show that clearly enough. (It is hidden in the background.) 

Our group will be returning to Rome in a few days and actually having dinner at the Vatican. 

Since Rome, amongst many other wonderful things, I have been to Florence and seen THE statue of David, as well as to Pisa and seen THE leaning tower, and tomorrow, instead of the free day listed on my itinerary, we are travelling into Switzerland and cruising on Lake Como and seeing two other lakes as well. That is a really unexpected opportunity. I am really looking forward to it!  

By the way, it is now 11 pm on Saturday 6 May. It must be the time difference that causes the blog site to register my three posts on Rome entered tonight as being posted on 7 May (which happens to be my birthday)!