My Italian Link - Issue #09 My Italian Link Issue #09 | Page 26

26 T R AV E L G U I D E THE VATICAN CITY VATICAN CITY Just off the Tiber River sits the smallest sovereign state in the world and the Catholic Church’s centre of authority (or Holy See). As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is not only the top ecclesiastical landmark, it boasts some of the world’s most cherished artworks. Your visit will start in the massive and impressive Piazza San Pietro (St. Peter’s Square). Cast your eyes above the colonnade to see 140 statues of the saints by Bernini’s students. The obelisk in the centre was carried to Rome from Egypt in 1586! To the west is the Basilica di San Pietro (St. Peter’s Basilica). As mentioned, St. Peter’s is one of Catholicism’s holiest churches. Make a beeline for the top three must-see master- pieces: Bernini’s baldachin over the papal altar; Michelangelo’s Pietà – the only sculpture he ever signed – and the bronze statue of St. Peter, whose right foot is completely smooth due to the centuries of pilgrims who’ve touched it. Climb the 551 steps to the top of the dome for one of the most spectacular views of Rome. Of course, you can’t miss the Musei Vaticani (Vatican Museums). Inside you’ll find almost 7km of some of the best artwork the world has to offer. The collection includes everything from Egyptian artifacts to masterpieces by Caravaggio, da Vinci and Tintoretto. Visit the Raphael Rooms, which showcase some of his most breathtaking works, and Michelangelo’s world-renowned Sistine Chapel. These amazing, colour- ful frescoes took the artist four years to complete, and should be an item on everybody’s bucket-list! Piazza San Pietro The dreamy Alban Hills to the southeast of Rome are embroidered with once resplendent palaces for Roman emperors and the elite. The towns in Castelli Romani are famous for their wine and gastronomy. ENRICHING EXCURSIONS FROM ROME Frascati: Nestled in Tuscolana, this is Castelli Romani’s wine town. Its popular DOC white wine is readily available outside its many cafes. Stop by the Villa Torlonia for some history before continuing "il dolce far niente" (the sweetness of doing nothing). Castel Gandolfo: Here, in Appia Albana on the shores of Lago di Albano, is the pope’s summer residence. It is considered one of the most beautiful places in Rome. Visit the town’s namesake, the Castel Gandolfo. There are also grottoes beneath the town and a market on Friday mornings. Nemi: This sleepy town in Lanuvina is the perfect rest-stop after bustling Rome. Take long, leisurely walks, visit the museum of the sunken Roman ships from Lago di Nemi, and be sure to try the town’s delicious strawberries! CASTELLI ROMANI GOOD TO KNOW! Castelli Romani yields seven DOC wines and several local delicacies, including porchetta, mushrooms and Romanesco artichokes. It’s perfect for the rustic Italian food tour of your dreams. ~ Lago di Nemi Lago di Nemi gardens Basilica di San Pietro VATICAN CITY OFF THE BEATEN TRACK An underground Vatican tour Book a ‘Scavi’ tour of the Vatican grottoes and Tomb of St. Peter! It’s not for the faint-of-heart, as you’ll be in a confined space, but it offers views of history many never get to see. Email [email protected] to request dates. Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo Villa Torlonia, Frascati 27