The Hidden Treasures of Vatican Library and Gardens
If you’re planning a trip to Rome, visiting the Vatican City is likely on your list of must-see destinations. While the famous Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica are certainly awe-inspiring, the Vatican has many other hidden treasures to explore. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at two of these lesser-known attractions: the Vatican Library and the Vatican Gardens.
Vatican Library:- The Vatican Library, officially known as the “Vatican Apostolic Library,” is one of the oldest and most important libraries in the world. It houses an immense collection of over 1.5 million books and manuscripts, including some of the oldest known copies of the Bible. The library also contains many other priceless treasures, such as ancient maps, prints, and drawings.
The Vatican Library was founded in the early 15th century by Pope Nicholas V. Since then, it has been expanded and enriched by successive popes, who added new collections and commissioned beautiful works of art to decorate the halls. Today, the library is open to scholars and researchers who wish to study its collections, as well as to visitors who want to admire its beauty and history.
When you visit the Vatican Library, you’ll have the chance to see some of its most valuable and fascinating items up close. These include:
The Codex Vaticanus, one of the oldest and most complete copies of the Bible in existence, dating back to the 4th century AD.
The Codex Sinaiticus, another ancient copy of the Bible, which was discovered in a monastery in Egypt in the 19th century.
The Sforza Book of Hours, a stunning illuminated manuscript created in the 15th century for the powerful Sforza family of Milan.
The Urbino Bible, a masterpiece of Renaissance book design created by the artist Federico da Montefeltro in the late 15th century.
Visiting the Vatican Library is a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the history of one of the world’s great intellectual treasures. Tickets for guided tours of the library can be purchased online or at the Vatican Museums ticket office.
Vatican Gardens:– While the Vatican Library is a hidden gem for book lovers, the Vatican Gardens are a peaceful oasis for nature enthusiasts. Located on Vatican Hill, the gardens cover an area of 57 acres and are home to a variety of rare plants, trees, and flowers.
The Vatican Gardens were first created in the 13th century, and have been expanded and transformed by successive popes over the centuries. Today, they are divided into different areas, each with its own unique features and attractions. Some of the highlights of the Vatican Gardens include:
The French Garden, with its elegant fountains and geometrically arranged flower beds.
The English Garden, a more naturalistic area with winding paths, small lakes, and a beautiful grotto.
The Rose Garden, which features over 1,000 varieties of roses, including many rare and antique specimens.
The Vatican Farm, where the pope’s own private vegetable garden is located.
When you visit the Vatican Gardens, you’ll have the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll through these beautiful spaces and soak up the tranquility and beauty of nature. You can book a guided tour of the gardens online or at the Vatican Museums ticket office.
Conclusion:- The Vatican Library and Gardens are two of the Vatican’s hidden treasures that are often overlooked by visitors. However, they are both fascinating and beautiful places that offer a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the Vatican City.
