Holidays in Rome: The Vatican City, a small independent State within Rome

Rome is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the world. It is a famous destination for international tourism, thanks to its numerous monuments and works of art. Tourism in Rome is not only concentrated in the city itself, however, but also in the small State that is located within it, namely the Vatican City. This independent State is located in the heart of the capital, adjacent to its historic center, and is home to the Pope and the Holy See. The Vatican has many historic and famous elements that are worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. These include the Basilica of St. Peter and the Vatican Museums. In the Vatican City, it is also possible to find other types of attractions, such as restaurants and shops where local souvenirs and mementos can be purchased.

History of the Vatican City.
The city-state of the Vatican was established in 1929 with the signing of the Lateran Pacts between dictator Mussolini and Cardinal Pietro Gasparri (who represented the Holy See), putting an end to the Roman Question. According to this agreement, the State and the Church mutually recognized their independence and sovereignty. The governing regime within the State is a monarchy, in which the Pope holds full power. As for the economy, Vatican City has its own currency (although the euro is also used) as well as stamps. Nowadays, it is possible to visit this independent State easily from all parts of the world: millions of pilgrims and simple tourists alike travel to Rome precisely to see the Vatican and in particular St. Peter's Basilica. The latter is undoubtedly one of the most important attractions in the city, not only for its majesty and beauty, but also for the meaning it represents in Italy and the world.

St. Peter's Basilica: Everything you need to know.
St. Peter's Basilica is one of the main monuments of the Vatican City. This basilica (which is the largest in all of Italy) was built around 1626: it took 120 years for the construction to finally be completed. It is a great example of art and culture: inside, there are numerous pictorial and sculptural works of inestimable value, such as those by Bernini and Michelangelo. Adjacent to the basilica, there are also various hotels, restaurants, and taverns where you can stop and rest. Even 4-star hotels are plentiful, including some where you can enjoy the beautiful view of St. Peter's Basilica and its spectacular dome.

Vatican Museums and Vatican Gardens: Attractions to discover
Among the many attractions that you can enjoy in the Vatican City, you cannot afford to miss the Vatican Museums. These owe their origin to Pope Julius II, who had them built around the 16th century. The Vatican Museums cannot be missed by first time visitors to Rome, as they contain some of the most beautiful and influential works of art in the world. Within these museums, it is possible to find a wide variety of sculptures and paintings, made by ancient and modern artists. Those who want to visit these museums can choose to stay in a hotel in the historic city center of Rome, or can opt for a hotel near Termini station, to then move around by metro or public transport. Those who stay in a hotel in Rome near the Vatican City should also plan to visit the Vatican Gardens. These are gardens located on a hill rising off the western banks of the Tiber, where you can enjoy all the peace and tranquility of these regal gardens. Those who stay in a hotel near the Colosseum can easily reach the Vatican using the fastest means of transportation available. Equally, those who choose to stay in a hotel near the Roman Forum (to best admire the majestic beauty of ancient Rome) can still make a stop at Vatican City and admire its wonders