The Vatican Museums are one of the most visited museums in the world. Each year, millions of visitors flock to the Vatican to marvel at the impressive art collections and sculptures on display. To ensure that you get the most out of your visit, it is essential to plan ahead, starting with obtaining your Vatican Museums tickets.
Obtaining Vatican Museums Tickets
There are several ways to obtain Vatican Museums tickets. One of the most convenient ways is to book your tickets online in advance. The official Vatican Museums website allows you to purchase your tickets ahead of time, which means that you can skip the long lines at the entrance and go straight to the museum’s entrance. You can also buy tickets from licensed tour operators and travel agencies, but make sure to double-check their legitimacy.
Another option is to purchase a Roma Pass, which includes admission to two museums or archaeological sites, as well as free public transportation in Rome for three consecutive days. The pass costs €38.50, and it is an excellent option if you are planning on visiting other museums or historical sites in Rome.
Must-See Statues in the Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums are home to an impressive collection of statues that span from ancient times to the modern era. Here are some of the must-see statues that you should not miss during your visit:
Laocoön and His Sons
Laocoön and His Sons is a monumental marble sculpture that dates back to the Hellenistic period. It depicts the Trojan priest Laocoön and his two sons struggling against serpents sent by the gods. The sculpture was rediscovered in Rome in 1506 and has since become one of the most iconic works of ancient art.
Apollo Belvedere
The Apollo Belvedere is a marble statue of the Greek god Apollo. It was originally sculpted in the 4th century BC, and it is considered a masterpiece of classical Greek art. The statue portrays Apollo in a moment of contemplation, with his left hand raised to his chin.
The Belvedere Torso
The Belvedere Torso is a massive marble fragment of a male nude, which is believed to be a copy of a 2nd-century BC original. The sculpture depicts a muscled torso that is believed to have belonged to the hero Hercules. Michelangelo was particularly impressed by this sculpture and was known to have studied it extensively.
The Sleeping Ariadne
The Sleeping Ariadne is a Roman marble statue that dates back to the 2nd century AD. It depicts Ariadne, the daughter of King Minos, who is sleeping on a rock while waiting for Theseus to return from the Labyrinth. The statue was found in Rome in 1503 and has been a part of the Vatican Museums’ collection ever since.
The Doryphoros of Polykleitos
The Doryphoros of Polykleitos is a bronze statue that was created in the 5th century BC. It depicts a young man holding a spear and is considered a classic example of ancient Greek sculpture. The statue was lost for centuries until a copy was found in Pompeii in the 18th century.
Conclusion
Visiting the Vatican Museums can be an overwhelming experience, given the vast collection of art and sculptures on display. By purchasing your tickets in advance and planning your visit, you can make the most of your time and see the must-see statues mentioned above. The Vatican Museums are an awe-inspiring collection of art, and they should not be missed by any art lover visiting Rome
