Vatican City is a sovereign state located within the city of
Rome. The smallest state in the world by both area and population.
It is an ecclesiastical or sacerdotal-monarchical state
ruled by the Bishop of Rome – the Pope. The highest state functionaries are all
Catholic clergy of various national origins. Since the return of the popes from
Avignon in 1377, they have generally resided at the Apostolic Palace within
what is now Vatican City, although at times residing instead in the Quirinal
Palace in Rome or elsewhere.
Within Vatican City are religious and cultural sites such as
St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. They feature
some of the world's most famous paintings and sculptures. The unique economy of
Vatican City is supported financially by the sale of postage stamps and tourist
mementos, fees for admission to museums, and the sale of publications.
Papal Audience in St. Peter's Square Vatican
In Spring, Summer and part of Autumn the audience is
normally held in St Peter's Square to accommodate the large crowds, there is a
seating area near the front for those with tickets but it is still a first come
first served basis so again to get a good seat you should arrive early.
If you are unable to arrive early or get a ticket in
advance, again as the the audience is usually held in St Peter's Square during
the Summer season it is still possible to access the Square and participate as
there is plenty of standing room.
As Rome can get extremely hot in Summer, particularly June,
July, August and the Audience is outside it is good to come prepared. BRING
HATS, SUNSCREEN AND WATER, you can also bring something to read or occupy
yourself with while you wait for the Audience to start.
You will need to pass through Security scanners similar to
the airport to access the audience, it is advisable to bring only small bags or
backpacks and Items such as pocket knives, corkscrews, scissors and similar
objects will not be permitted through the checkpoint.
The Vatican do list the dates of Audiences and events on
their website and they normally update it periodically, usually 3 months ahead
of any scheduled dates.
Check
the calendar:
Papal
Audience Tickets are entirely FREE
How to get your marriage blessed by the pope:
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