Raphael Kessler

The Vatican City is a bit of a funny place, with its own police force, army, postal service and so forth all in a city state within Rome. I don't know how much power this state has internationally, anyway I don't like dictatorships, religious or otherwise. These Popes seem to think once they get elected (and the election process is hardly the most democratic), that they are in the job for life. Time for a bit of regime change there I think.

In all seriousness though, there are some impressive things to see within the Vatican's precincts, including some phenomenal artwork and outstanding architecture. Actually the opulence on show here to house one man is bolder, more audacious and ostentatious than anything built by any of the rest of the worlds dictators. The contrast between this and the poverty that exists in the majority of Catholic countries is appalling. Despite this, it is still impressive to see these vast eccliastic buildings.

 

St. Peters still remains one of the worlds largest buildings and the sense of scale can only truly be appreciated when inside where one feels entirely dwarfed by the massiveness on show. There are also sculptures and paintings from some of the greatest artists in history.

The Sistine Chapel has got what is most likely the worlds most famous ceiling. The decorator apparently took his time, but he did a lovely job. I just hope he wasn't paid by the hour.