The Vatican

I really wanted to see a doctor here in Italy to make sure I was fit for sightseeing; however, I was informed by the hotel receptionist that I would either have to waste an entire day waiting at a public hospital or spend over 70 euros to see a private doctor.  Neither of those options seemed very appealing, so once again, my brother and I trudged forward.  We checked out of our hotel and checked into a Bed and Breakfast closer to the Vatican - when I got there I found out that I had accidently booked the wrong night!  The owner was very angry but I did my best to diffuse the situation by apologizing repeatedly.  Luckily, he was kind enough to not charge us for the extra night.

After that experience, we walked towards the Vatican, which was about a five minute walk from where we were staying (we actually saw it from the balcony!)  The Apostolic Palace is truly a magnificent sight to behold - it is surreal standing in the courtyard being surrounded by the marble columns, statues, and, fountains and also having St Peter's Basilica in the background.  We were also fortunate that the Nativity Scene and the Christmas tree were still up on the day we visited.

I do have to say though, that the Vatican museum was more awe-inspiring than I could have imagined.  There are so many important paintings and sculptures within the museum that you almost overlook some fascinating things.  To me, the most impressive sights of all were the ceiling of the map room (pictured above) and, of course the Sistine Chapel.  I am quite disappointed in a way because I could not appreciate them fully in my state (I thought I was going to collapse), but they were truly mesmerizing.  The Sistine Chapel in particular is something I am glad I experienced.