Sistine Chapel Review

Words cannot describe the experience.  It's awe inspiring.  The chapel adorned of the genius of Michelanglo's work, is truly one of the great masterpieces and artistic endeavors of the world.  Taller than you would imagine.  Longer than you would imagine.  Narrower than you would imagine.  It was never intended as to be viewed by the general public, but to be only the private chapel of the Pope.

Completed in only 4 years, with probably only two years of actual painting on the chapel, and two years of scaffolding erection and re-erection, along with time for Papal viewing and fighting with Michelangelo.  What production!  That's enough for any painting contractor touring the Vatican museum to have a serious conversation with his crews after arriving home. 

Just as impressive are the rooms and corridors leading to the Sistine Chapel.  Long ornate corridors with frescoes, marble columns, statuary, mere pictures would not due it justice.  As the trip through the Vatican was not one I was very excited about before I went, I am surely glad I did.   

Vatican tourist tip:  While the crowds are always substantial during any time of the year, an off season trip is your best bet, (October thru March).  Wall to wall people, 90 degree heat and no air conditioning make it hard to be awe struck.