The Vatican, Rome

The Vatican is among the most important historical sites in the world. The seat of the Holy Roman Catholic Church, The Vatican is also the home of the Pope. As the smallest state in the world, the Vatican has figured in key events throughout history. Occupying approximately half a kilometer of Rome, the Vatican is significant because of its fabulous architecture, religious, and artistic treasures. It was Pope Julius II who commissioned Michelangelo to paint the history of creation on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel during the 16th century. Among countless other notable events in the history of this important city is the convening of the College of Cardinals, at the death of a reigning Pontiff, for the purposes of electing a new Pope.