If you had planned to stroll through the Roman streets to admire the treasures of the Vatican, a significant event is shaking up the calendar: the recent death of Pope Francis. Between solemn funerals, an ultra-secret conclave, and an influx of faithful, the coming weeks promise to be unprecedented in the city-state and could transform your stay into a true epic adventure… or a grueling challenge!
The death of Pope Francis disrupts the Vatican’s calendar… and potentially yours! Between solemn funerals, a secret conclave, and an influx of faithful, some iconic monuments – including the famous Sistine Chapel – will temporarily close their doors. Should you then give up discovering Rome in the coming weeks? Advantages, disadvantages, and practical tips for organizing (or postponing) your stay in the Eternal City, we cover it all, without omitting the surprises that may affect your sightseeing journey.
Rome in mourning: a unique atmosphere #
The death of Pope Francis on April 21 triggers a singular excitement in Rome. Funerals, processions, public mourning: the Eternal City takes on a new face. Walking through the squares and alleys of the Italian capital during this period is to experience a rare event… but beware, not everything is accessible at all times. It should be noted right away that the major sites of the Vatican, such as St. Peter’s Basilica, are open to the public, albeit with some restrictions during major events – including the funeral service and the burial of the pontiff.
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Closures and restrictions: the survival guide for visitors #
While the papal funerals are grandiose, they also mean temporary closures. The Vatican Museums and the museum center of Castel Gandolfo, for example, will close their doors on April 26 in mourning. Guided tours in the Vatican Gardens or at the Necropolis of Via Triumphalis are suspended. The influx of faithful coming to pay their last respects to the Pope will result in long queues and heightened security measures, especially during the transfer of the body to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, the burial site.
Sistine Chapel: frescoes off-limits – for now #
The jewel of the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel, will close its doors to the public from May 6 to May 11 (possibly longer depending on the duration of the conclave), to allow for the election of the new Pope. Therefore, it will be impossible to admire Michelangelo’s masterpieces unless you exhibit a patience that is entirely… Catholic! Only the cardinal electors will have access during this process, both fascinating and inaccessible. The theoretical duration of the closure? Hard to say… Previous conclaves have sometimes been swift, lasting only one or two days, but history reminds us that waiting longer isn’t impossible (the record is 1006 days!).
Rome and the Vatican: not all is (totally) lost for visitors #
Good news: when St. Peter’s Basilica or the Sistine Chapel are temporarily inaccessible, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore other wonders of Rome, away from the crowd of the Vatican city-state. Why not take advantage of this context for a trip along the Appian Way or to Ostia Antica, discovering the Roman dolce vita? The Vatican museums remain open outside the ceremony dates, and the capital is full of treasures to explore, whether they be small Baroque churches, colorful markets, or enchanting views from the Janiculum.
Tips and tricks for organizing your stay in Rome #
To avoid unpleasant surprises, always check special warnings and official updates before your departure. Allow extra time for transportation, and equip yourself with practical solutions such as a MagSafe travel charger to keep your devices connected during long waits.
If traveler anxiety creeps up on you in this exceptional context, don’t panic: this article on how to travel abroad with peace of mind will surely reassure you! And to anticipate the evolution of the situation or adapt your plans (according to ceremonies or queues), keep an eye on the latest travel forecasts for Rome and its region.
Is it better to go, cancel, or postpone? #
If your priority is a thorough visit of the Vatican, it’s probably best to wait for the complete reopening of the iconic sites. But if you dream of experiencing Rome differently, wandering, and feeling the collective emotion at St. Peter’s Square, this period carries a historical scent. Just expect a few surprises, and prepare your stay with flexibility. After all, Rome remains Rome, even (and especially) when the whole world is watching it…
