June 30 - Vatican, St. Peter's, Tiramisu

We began our last day in another state. The best part is that we don't have to clear customs! Vatican City is a state on its own. The borders are the surrounding wall.

The Vatican museums are so vast that we could days there. I've noticed that every guide has something new to add to the story for me to learn. This time, it was the orientation of the maps on the walls. Each of the area maps was commissioned to be seen as the region would be viewed from the Vatican. So, the geographic features would not always appear as they would on a regular map.

The Sistine Chapel prohibits photography, but I've downloaded  a couple of my favorite sections (apart from the creation of man). The first is Michelangelo's revenge on his detractor Biagio da Cesena. The second is the "good thief" with the cross.
St. Peter's Square was still set up with seating  from yesterday's solemnity Mass. The Bascilica was closed yesterday, and I think that increased the number of people there today. Still, I discovered new things. Quite possibly because we had an actual tour this time. First time for me. Didn't know that Veronica's veil is kept behind her statue or that part of the Cross is behind St. Helena. St. Peter's statue is very detailed,  except his foot which has been rubbed smooth by pilgrims. 

The afternoon activity changed, but it seemed to be well-received. Instead of making cannoli, they made tiramisu. They did a great job and got to consume their work afterwards.
At dinner tonight we were serenaded by a delight gentleman playing a "squeeze box." I think he may have been the owner of the restaurant.  He was a joy!


After dinner we returned to our hotel to pack up for tomorrow's trip home. We found another GC group is staying at our hotel. I was really happy to see the leaders!!

Tomorrow we'lleave for the airport after breakfast. The bus picks us up at 8:45, which is 2:45 home time. We're scheduled home at 10:40 pm.

Thanks for following along!

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