The recent passing of Pope Francis on April 21 has ushered in significant changes for visitors to the Vatican, most notably the closure of the Sistine Chapel—a highlight for many travellers to Rome.
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As the Vatican prepares for the upcoming papal conclave, tourists are being turned away from one of the city’s most iconic attractions. The Sistine Chapel, renowned for its artistic and architectural significance, is temporarily off-limits as it transforms into a solemn space for the College of Cardinals to elect the new pope, according to AP News.
This centuries-old ritual, dramatised in the 2024 film “Conclave,” captivates global audiences with its mystery and tradition. The chapel, commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV in the 15th century, boasts Renaissance masterpieces, including Michelangelo’s “The Creation of Adam” and “The Last Judgment,” as well as works by Botticelli, Perugino, and Ghirlandaio.
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For many tourists, the closure is a significant disappointment. Leonie Shannon, a 67-year-old visitor from Australia, expressed her sentiments to Reuters: “To come from so far, not to be able to go into one of the major sites is very disappointing.”
Similarly, Guo Feng, part of a group of art students from China, remarked, “This is a truly great work of art that we’ve studied, so we hoped that we could witness it firsthand. Unfortunately, we can’t see it on this trip. It’s a big regret for us”
Despite the setback, many visitors understand the unique circumstances. Ahmad Mourad, a tourist from Texas, shared, “We were a little bit sad (But we understand the situation and everything.”
Sharyn Davis from Australia added, “It would have been amazing to see the Michelangelo, … I mean, that’s stunning. But look, I think we still enjoyed what we saw. There were still many, many, many rooms that we could explore … But yeah, obviously disappointed,”
While the Sistine Chapel remains inaccessible, the Vatican Museums continue to offer a wealth of art and history, ensuring that visitors can still experience the Vatican’s rich cultural tapestry during this transitional period.
Note: Travellers planning visits to the Vatican during significant events should check official sources for updates on accessibility to key sites.
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