The Most Beautiful Place on Earth
Written: Apr 28 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Welcome to the Earthly gates of Heaven
Cons: dress code (nothing risque, etc.), backpacks not allowed inside
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| brmanker's Full Review: Holy See (Vatican City) |
My friends and I had planned to go to the Vatican City and St. Peter's Basilica as a side trip; in fact, we did not really care much about the "home" of the Pope. I, myself, am a Methodist, and I am not very religious. I had no idea what effect St. Peter's would have on me.
Before I begin, I'd like to suggest getting a tour guide. The tours tend to be long, but many of them take you to the basilica, Sistine Chapel, and the magnificent Vatican Museums. Each morning at around 9 or 10 o'clock, many tour guides stand out by the fountains outside in the courtyard (out front of the basilica). Find them. Utilize them. They will fill your head with wonderful facts.
St. Peter's is so important in terms of history, that every American (regardless of religious orientation) should see it at least once. The Catholic church has influenced millions of people (in good and bad ways) over the centuries, and part of who were are today is represented in that small part of the Roman landscape.
My friends and I were tempted to whip out the cameras on the inside but refrained from doing so because we would never be able to capture the majesty and awe of that place. You simply cannot put feelings on film.
My friend said another reason for his not taking pictures was that he wanted everyone to have to go personally to see the basilica.
The church is so warm, so inviting. The marble sculptures are breathtaking; the famous "Pieta" is quite moving. As I listened to the voices of the choir echoing through the bright sanctuary, and watched as the light filtered through the high windows, I was moved to tears.
I cried because I was so incredibly moved.
It was like being in heaven.
Make the trek to St. Peter's. Make it if you're athiest. Make it if you're Catholic. Make it because you must see it. It's part of YOUR history.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
brmanker
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Member: Brad Manker
Location: Jacksonville, IL
Reviews written: 30
Trusted by: 9 members
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