Rome: The Vatican and St. Peters' Basilica.

Cue the Choir.
Wow. I'm not sure that there are words to use. St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican is just. Well. Stunning. Magnificent, really. It's an overwhelming work of art. It kind of makes you scratch your head. This is definitely the most expensive thing I've ever come in contact with.

// I just found these guys so funny. //

Vatican.
We spent like 7 hours in Vatican City, roaming through the endless museum rooms filled with amazing sculptures and art. Then we transitioned into the wondrous Sistine Chapel, where my buddy Michelangelo painted his masterpiece on the ceiling of the church, depicting major scenes in the Christian faith. That guy. I just want to pinch his cheeks. No photos were allowed in there (no bare shoulders or talking, either!) but we gazed up at the ceiling until our necks gave out. Then it was Italian coffee time. Praise report.

What up, St. Pete?
After the Chapel we made our way into St. Peter's Basilica, the most outrageously lavish church (or place, for that matter) that I've ever encountered. I mean, let's just talk about the gold. This place has GOLD melted into the walls, the ceiling, the floor, the sculptures... which are so great in number that they cloud your periphery. It's mega. This is a mega church. The basilica was also designed by Michelangelo (and was based on his study of Rome's gigantic Pantheon, remember? Ah, you are learning with me, I love it.) There are alters in every nook and cranny. Mary has celeb status. Peter is buried in the church (along with a zillion other popes) and we had the rare opportunity to walk downstairs underneath the church and see all the crypts of those buried there. Kind of weird, yes, but there have been SO MANY popes. In life. It's a wonder. Learning is just awesome.

Recap.
We had a most spectacular (and exhausting) day in Vatican City. But it is not to be missed. The art is incredible. If the sheer extravagance of this place offends you, just readjust how you think. Appreciate this place for its significance in human history and for the incredible art that was commissioned for the some of the world's most phenomenal artists. Including my boyfriend. Michel.


St. Peters Basilica from Kristen Hale on Vimeo.

Seriously. There aren't enough words.