The Vatican

Whatever your religious feeelings, the Vatican is an extraordinary building, both from a historical and architectural point of view. We had been told that bare legs and arms were not allowed, but in the event the guards/keepers were quite relaxed, and photos were allowed, too.

It was impossible to see everything: in August there are just so many tourists. The Whispering Gallery and the crypt will have to wait for another time. I am not sure either whether one can actually visit the Sistine Chapel, but if so of course that is a must one day.

The sheet size of the unsupported area inside the church is stunning: no other cathedral comes close, and the unsupported dome is magnificent.