The Vatican is a top tourist destination in the city of Rome. It is the heart of Christianity and the center of Roman Catholicism, considered an independent City-State with the Pope as its head of state. As such it is accorded all the courtesies of an independent nation, and once you cross into Vatican City from Rome are are officially beyond the jurisdiction of Roman authorities.

The small size of Vatican City, at only 11 km square, belies its significance. The area holds a collection of treasures that rival any at the greatest museums of the world, including paintings, sculptures and other artworks by the famous masters. One masterpiece that should not be missed is LaPieta, one of Michelangelo's most beautiful and revered creations of all time. The statue depicts the Virgin Mary holding the body of Christ, draped over her lap.