Vatican Museums: what to see and the best works

The Vatican Museums offer a journey through art and history with masterpieces such as the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms and the Laocoon, as well as collections of paintings, ancient maps and Egyptian artefacts.

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Vatican Museums: what to see

If you are planning a visit to Rome, you cannot miss the Vatican Museums. With their incredible collections of art and history, they offer a unique experience that will leave you breathless. But with so many wonders to see, where to start? Here is a friendly guide to help you discover the must-see works and rooms during your visit.

1. The Sistine Chapel

When it comes to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel is undoubtedly one of the most famous attractions. Its walls and ceiling, painted by Michelangelo, are a triumph of colour and detail. The famous Last Judgement will leave you speechless, as will the famous scene of the Creation of Adam. Make sure you take the time to admire every detail, because it really is an unforgettable spectacle!

2. The Raphael Rooms

Another unmissable stop is the Raphael Roomsa set of four rooms frescoed by the famous Renaissance artist. Among them, the Signature Room houses the masterpiece 'The School of Athens', depicting the greatest philosophers and thinkers of antiquity. Each wall tells a story, and the vibrant colours and intricate details show all of Raphael's mastery.

3. The Laocoon: drama sculpted in marble

If you love sculpture, you cannot miss the Laocoon group. This extraordinary work, sculpted in marble, captures a moment of drama and tension. The sculpture depicts the Trojan priest Laocoon and his sons being attacked by serpents sent by the gods. It is a work that tells a story full of emotion and pathos, and admiring it up close will make you feel part of that epic moment.

4. the Vatican Art Gallery: paintings not to be missed

If you are a lover of painting, the Vatican Art Gallery is a must-see. This museum houses an extraordinary collection of works of art, ranging from medieval paintings to Renaissance masterpieces. Here you can admire works by Caravaggio, Leonardo da Vinci, e Titianamong many others. The variety of styles and periods will allow you to immerse yourself in the history of European art.

5. The Map Gallery: a journey into the past

For something a little different, don't miss the Map Gallery. This long room is decorated with hand-painted maps depicting the different regions of Italy as they appeared in the 16th century. Walking along this gallery, you almost feel as if you are taking a journey through time and space, exploring the Italy of a bygone era.

6. the Cortile della Pigna: an oasis of peace

After visiting the many galleries and crowded rooms, take a moment to relax in the Courtyard of the Pine Cone. This peaceful courtyard is dominated by a giant sculpture in the shape of a pine cone, after which it is named. It is the perfect place for a break, where you can sit and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by architectural and sculptural masterpieces.

7. The Egyptian Museum: a leap into ancient Egypt

Not everyone knows that the Vatican Museums also house an interesting collection of Egyptian artefacts. The Egyptian Museum is perfect for fans of ancient history, with sarcophagi, mummies and objects from the tombs of the pharaohs. It is a fascinating experience that adds a touch of exoticism to your visit.

Tips for travellers

Book tickets in advance: The Vatican Museums can be very crowded, so booking online is always a good idea to avoid long queues.

Arrive early or late afternoon: Rush hours can be chaotic, so plan your visit early in the day or just before closing time to better enjoy the experience.

Take a guided tour: If you want to learn more about the works you see, a guided tour will provide you with many interesting facts and details that you might miss on your own.

Wear comfortable shoes: Museums are huge and you will be walking a lot, so better be prepared!

The Vatican Museums offer much more than can be described in a few lines. With their masterpieces of art, rooms rich in history and hidden corners, there is something fascinating for every kind of visitor. Whether you are a lover of art, history or simply curious to discover new wonders, a visit to the Vatican Museums is sure to be one of the most unforgettable moments of your trip to Rome.

Do you already have your list of what to see?

What makes the Laocoon so special?

In addition to its technical mastery, the Laocoon is striking for its emotional intensity. Looking at it, you can almost feel the terror of the protagonists, the drama of the moment, and you find yourself immersed in a visual narrative that transports you straight into the heart of Greek mythology. If you love art that tells stories, the Laocoon will not disappoint your expectations.

Laocoon: the mystery of the missing parts

A small curiosity: when the sculpture was found, some parts were missing, including Laocoon's right arm. Michelangelo thought it should be bent backwards, while another sculptor, Baccio Bandinelli, reconstructed it in extension. Here's the twist: in 1906, the original arm was discovered, confirming Michelangelo's intuition! Today, the Laocoon you see has been restored with the rediscovered arm.