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|  | Rome is more than a travel destination; it's a pilgrimage to the capital of the Catholic world.
Ancient history The first Christians of the western world were buried in Rome. It is the site of three great basilicas (St. John Lateran, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and St. Mary Major) and a host of other churches. Above all, it is where THE high holy place of Christianity was built: St. Peter's Basilica, with its famous Michelangelo cupola.
A great museum Rome is the city of the Pope. His State, the Vatican, may be the smallest in Europe but its museum is one of greatest in the world. You must see the Sistine Chapel, the rooms decorated by Raphael and all the masterpieces of religious art. |
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|  | Catacombs of St. Callixtus This is the oldest Christian cemetery in Rome and the burial place of popes and St. Cecilia.
Basilica di San Clemente This 13th-century church was built around an early Christian church, itself erected over a Roman house.
Caravaggio masterpieces His most famous baroque paintings decorate the churches of Santa Maria del Popolo, Sant'Agostino and San Luigi dei Francesi.
Papal audiences Every Wednesday morning, the Pope gives a public audience in St. Peter's Square. The faithful won't want to miss this - nor will the curious! |
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