The five main attractions you must see in the Vatican: It is the smallest state, but it hides the biggest secrets

The smallest independent state in the world, the Vatican, was in the spotlight a few days ago because the decision to elect a new Pope was made there.

As the political and spiritual center of the Catholic Church, the Vatican is home to the Popes, who are the spiritual leaders of more than a billion Catholics worldwide.

The Vatican is located in the heart of Rome and covers an area of ​​only 44 hectares. The uniqueness of the Vatican lies not only in its size, but also in the wealth of history, culture and art it contains.

Despite its small size, the Vatican is the center of global religious power and, possessing many holy sites, architectural masterpieces, and historically significant monuments, attracts visitors from all over the world.

Due to its status, the Vatican has special importance in international relations, even though it is not a member of the United Nations.

Although it is a country with a small territory, the Vatican has some things that are essential when visiting this country, and these are five things you should not miss, reports the Telegraph.

1. St. Peter's Square

St. Peter's Square is a large and spacious place located directly in front of St. Peter's Basilica. Saint Peter was one of the leaders of the early Christian church, one of the twelve apostles, as well as the first pope. It is considered one of the largest and most famous squares in the world.

The square was designed by Bernini and was designed to accommodate more than 250.000 worshipers. In the center is a large Egyptian obelisk, on both sides of which is a fountain. On the outer parts of the square there are rows of columns on both sides, which, if you look at the square from the direction of the Basilica, resemble two hands. At the top of the rows of columns are statues of saints and various religious figures.

From the Square you can also see the Apostolic Palace, which is located to the right of St. Peter's Basilica and is the official residence of the Pope.

2. St. Peter's Basilica

The ceiling of this gigantic church is so high that it's unbelievable that it's still standing after two world wars and countless earthquakes. St. Peter's Basilica is the largest church in the world! It's also one of the most important buildings in the Christian world.

As you enter, on your right you will see the Pietà, a Renaissance sculpture created by Michelangelo. It shows Mary holding the body of the dead Jesus in her lap and weeping. You can visit St. Peter's Tabernacle, the statue of St. Peter on the throne, and the grottoes.

The Baldachin of St. Peter is a large bronze canopy designed by Bernini and marks the exact location of St. Peter's tomb, beneath the Basilica, hence the church's name. Beneath the giant canopy is the Papal Altar.

The right foot of the statue of Saint Peter on the throne is held by people who touch it for good luck.

St. Peter's Basilica is so large that it will take you a while to see all the artwork and statues. You will need at least an hour to walk around and absorb all this beauty.

3. The dome of St. Peter's Basilica

Many people don't know, but you can actually visit the dome of St. Peter's Basilica. However, this is one of the must-sees in the Vatican, only if you can climb the stairs – 551. Here's the rub – there's an elevator that can take you to a certain part, but you'll still have to climb most of the stairs (there are still over 300 left).

The interior consists of a narrow corridor where you can see the interior of the Basilica, as well as some of Michelangelo's artwork that decorates the dome. The exterior offers stunning views of St. Peter's Square, Rome, and the entire Vatican City.

Some of the gardens and buildings in the Vatican can only be seen from this location.

4. Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are a long corridor with different rooms containing various treasures. On display are extraordinary works of art and sculptures that the Catholic Church has acquired over the centuries.

There are 54 museums in total, but don't worry, you'll be able to visit everything that's open to the public in about an hour. Some of the main attractions to see are the Gallery of Geographical Maps, the Raphael Rooms, the Tapestry Gallery, and the Helical Staircase.

5. Sistine Chapel

As we mentioned, the Sistine Chapel is currently at its peak as the world awaits the name of the new pope. However, if your trip takes you to another time, when the conclave is over, the Sistine Chapel is definitely worth the thrill!

It is one of the things you must see in the Vatican. Interestingly, taking pictures is not allowed, even without using flash, regardless of whether you take the pictures with your phone or a professional camera. Security staff are constantly roaming around and if you are caught taking pictures, they will ask you to leave.

One more thing is very important – you must be silent because talking is not allowed while you are in the chapel. Also, you should keep in mind that you cannot visit the Sistine Chapel alone, but to visit it, you have to go through the Vatican Museums. When you leave the chapel, you will find yourself inside St. Peter's Basilica.

The main thing to see in the Sistine Chapel is the beautiful Renaissance frescoes by the genius Michelangelo. The two most famous frescoes are The Creation of Adam (on the ceiling) and The Last Judgment (on the entire altar wall). /Telegraph/