The Sistine Chapel, located within Vatican City, is one of the most iconic artistic and religious landmarks in the world. Built between 1473 and 1481 under the commission of Pope Sixtus IV, it was consecrated in 1483. Its architectural design is mode... read morest from the outside, but the interior holds some of the most celebrated Renaissance masterpieces, most notably Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes and his monumental work “The Last Judgment” on the altar wall.

Michelangelo painted the chapel’s ceiling from 1508 to 1512, featuring scenes from the Book of Genesis such as “The Creation of Adam.” The side walls also display frescoes by Renaissance masters including Sandro Botticelli, Pietro Perugino, and Domenico Ghirlandaio, depicting episodes from the lives of Moses and Christ. The chapel is also used for the papal conclave, the sacred process during which a new pope is elected.

To visit the Sistine Chapel, guests must enter through the Vatican Museums, as it is the final stop on the museum route. The chapel is open Monday through Saturday and closed on most Sundays, with the exception of the last Sunday of each month when admission is free. Modest attire is required, and photography is strictly prohibited to protect the delicate artworks. Advance ticket booking is recommended to avoid long wait times, especially during peak tourist seasons.