Visiting Vatican City was a surreal experience. The world’s smallest country is about 2-miles in diameter with Italy surrounding its vicinity. Ironically, this country was exact same size as my hometown in the rural northwest Oklahoma panhandle, with a population of nearly 500 citizens. Naturally, I felt right at home (lol).

It’s crazy to think this district has its very own political identity, with the pope essentially playing the role of the president. Vatican City even mints its own coins, prints its own stamps, and even has its very own flag and anthem.

There, we also had the opportunity to see works of Michelangelo such as The Sistine Chapel. It was an experience that I will never forget. There were guards around the area within the chapel and they ensured the area remained as silent as possible.

The detailed design of the high ceiling was nearly impossible to take in at once. Each detail allowed Michelangelo to showcase his skill in creating a vast array of poses of the human figure, and has influenced art pieces even today. We were also informed that contrary to popular belief, Michelangelo actually painted the famous chapel in a standing position, rather than on his back. We also found out that the chapel is still very in use today. New popes are even elected there.

Overall, Vatican City was an amazing experience.