Vatican City
The Vatican City, one of the most sacred places in Christendom, attests to a great history and a formidable spiritual venture. A unique collection of artistic and architectural masterpieces lie within the boundaries of this small state. At its centre is St Peter's Basilica, with its double colonnade and a circular piazza in front and bordered by palaces and gardens. The basilica, erected over the tomb of St Peter the Apostle, is the largest religious building in the world, the fruit of the combined genius of Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, Bernini and Maderno.
http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/286
Vatican City is an important site in the history of Christianity that is also known for its Renaissance and Baroque artistic creations.
Most famous monument within this small city state is of course the San Pietro Basilica. Until 1989 this was the biggest cathedral in Christianity (now it is surpassed by his replica in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast). The current structure dates from the early 16th century, although there have been churches on this site since 326 AD.
The Sistine Chapel is the other remarkable item here. Dating from the late 15th century, this papal conference room is decorated by a series of paintings by a.o. Michelangelo. Between 1535 and 1541 he added his masterpiece: The Last Judgement. After restauration in the 1980s, visitors can enjoy again the marvellous glow of his art.
http://www.worldheritagesite.org/sites/vaticancity.html
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