Old Gardens
the Old Gardens is part of Rome , Vatican City , Vatican Gardens .Top photos chosen by u all:
The Swiss Guard
Made by Raphael Borja
It is the Swiss Guards' duty to protect and defend the Vatican state and the Pope. There are just over 100 of them in service today. They used to come from an affluent Swiss family, but I think recruitment is no longer restricted to the family. Recruits must still meet a set of strict requirements though: Catholic, Swiss citizen, aged 19 to 30, at least 5'9 in height, single, and handsome.
XXIII
Made by Raphael Borja
The body of Pope John XXIII is in open view, as his body was extremely well-preserved when his coffin was opened a few years after he died in 1963. He still looks good after all these years!
Dome of St. Peter
Made by Raphael Borja
The dome was designed by Michelangelo, chief architecht of the basilica. The dome is incredibily higher than it looks; the Statue of Liberty can fit underneath!
At Post
Made by Raphael Borja
Two guards are stationed at the entrance left of the basilica. The Pope would arrive from and leave through this entrance for his weekly audience.
"On This Rock..."
Made by Raphael Borja
This canopy designed by Bernini sits in the center of the basilica over the main altar. Buried directly underneath are the bones of St. Peter.
Nearest places of interest:
| New Garden Valle Aurelia Station Vatican Gardens Vatican City | Art Gallery Vatican Museums Ospedale Oftalmico Oratorio San Giuseppe |
