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Published: March 31st 2010
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While MTV cribs brings some pretty impressive and often ridiculous homes, perhaps there is no more fitting home in the world under this category than that of Vatican City. Not only is the Roman Catholic Church home the world's largest collection of historical artworks (which proves how lucrative plundering can be under God's name), this 110 acre residence of 800 people is literally its own country. In many ways, the Vatican City is a unique part of the world in both political and social aspects. This country is a true theocracy, in which a Divine Right (leader chosen by God) is the government structure, of course putting the Pope as the leader of the country. This is truly the only nation one could visit in which every single part of the country is recognized as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Walking through Vatican City is like taking an artistic journey through time in a politically unique situation. In other words, it's a great way to spend a day in Rome.
The Vatican became an official country around 1929, with the roots of the Holy See (it’s authority to rule) dating back to 325 AD. In a sense, this makes the
Vatican City also one of the world’s oldest countries. In Europe, it’s currently the only absolute monarchy, in which the Pope has full Executive, Legislative and Judicial power. While of course the power of the Roman Catholic Church has been immense and controlled much land in Europe's history, this power has not transitioned to more of an influential rather than direct one. For example, while the Vatican is a country, it does not hold a seat at the United Nations, but instead holds a Permanent Observer Seat. Still though, it’s in many ways a one of a kind existence. The Vatican City can issue its own passports to its residents. The security forces are composed completely of mercenaries, or hired security from Switzerland called the Corpo della Gendarmeria. The world’s only Latin ATM exists here, the Pope has his own train station and the Vatican even has its own post office. The Vatican’s fire department is perhaps the world’s easiest job, in that the last fire they had to deal with date back over 50 years. The Vatican holds no relations with some countries that would they hold religious issues with, such as China and Saudi Arabia. It’s almost like
the more things modernize, the more religion stays the same.
Perhaps the most interesting historical story of the Vatican is its early roots. Originally, this swampy land was under Roman control and was drained to build a circus upon, started by Emperor Caligula and then by Nero. It is strongly argued that St. Peter was crucified upside down here at this site, thus, denoting the name of St. Peter’s square. Around 300 AD, the Roman Catholic Church began to transition this location as its home base, but the only true remnant that exists of the Roman circus is the Egyptian obelisk. Therefore, it is interesting to note that very land upon which the Roman Emperors created a circus to amuse and entertain the population while they exercised unchecked power, the Catholic Church has built its home base upon. Understanding history can certainly lead to asking some larger questions.
In terms of taking in the art work, there are some very impressive pieces and displays here. Of course there is Michelangelo’s Pieta, the marble stone work that represents his skill. Along with this, Raphael has some fresco’s here that makes an entire room feel like a true piece of art. Perhaps
most famous though is the painting of Genesis in the Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo. Being within this room was truly spectacular and it literally strains one’s thinking to consider how talented Michelangelo must have been. It is beyond doubt one of the most beautiful works of art I have ever seen. This may beg the question, where are the pictures? Well, due to the damaging effect of flash photography, no pictures were allowed to be taken. While I could have snuck in a few pictures, I chose to keep integrity over some snapshots. Maybe it’s best though that if one is truly curious to see this testament of art and beauty that he or she should become dedicated to seeing this in person and begin planning a trip?
Walking through the Basilica revealed some stunning work and craftsmanship. Many previous Pope’s have memorials within, displaying really impressive sculptures. For me, it was interesting to contemplate how strongly the Vatican interior would resemble ancient Rome in its prime. While there are certainly some major differences, I gained the impression there are many similarities, once again making this an artistic and historic experience. After walking through for a few hours, I came
down with a spell of masterpiece overload. It’s almost as if all the priceless treasures of art began to move at a blur. While I tried to observe as many pieces as I could, there always seemed to be more that demanded careful time and attention to appreciate. I did the best I could, but the Vatican is truly a treasure trove. Much like the Louvre of Paris, I feel that the real piece of art is the structure itself. Further, are the fresco’s and paintings on the wall counted as a part of the building, or separate works of art? Overall, I have to admit that the Vatican was well beyond my expectations. It is a very beautiful place, but considering how much land and wealth it has ‘acquired’ over its history, I suppose it is a good testament to what humanity can produce (and claim). Much to its credit, the Vatican has made many of these works open to the public, in fact, making tourism one of the main economic life bloods of the country. Still though, it is only fair to consider how many texts and works or art are still held privately and not open to
the general public.
As I walked through the stunning rooms and hallways full of priceless artifacts, I was simply awestruck by the wealth and value of the Vatican demonstrated under its Prosperity Theology. Later in the day with these memories of grandeur fresh in my mind, I was able to recall an obscure quote “It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” In retrospect, I was taught much about religion this day.
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