With its breathtaking architecture, rich history, and spiritual significance, Vatican City has been a popular setting for various films, TV shows, and books. The world’s smallest independent state offers a unique backdrop that captivates artists and audiences alike. This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through the 10 famous films shot in Vatican City, among other fascinating aspects of its cinematic and literary allure.
10 Famous Films Shot in Vatican City
Vatican City, with its iconic St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, has long been a favorite setting for filmmakers looking to capture its unique blend of spiritual grandeur and architectural beauty. Here are ten movies set in this tiny yet majestic city-state:
- “The Agony and the Ecstasy” (1965) – This film explores the intense relationship between Michelangelo and Pope Julius II during the painting of the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling.
- “The Shoes of the Fisherman” (1968) – Set in the Vatican, this film follows the story of a cardinal who unexpectedly becomes Pope.
- “The Godfather: Part III” (1990) – The concluding installment of the Godfather trilogy includes scenes set in the Vatican and references to Vatican politics.
- “Mission: Impossible III” (2006) – Though not entirely set in Vatican City, one of the film’s most thrilling sequences involves an elaborate heist in the Vatican.
- “Angels & Demons” (2009) – Based on Dan Brown’s bestselling novel, this film features the Vatican as a central location in a plot involving an ancient secret society.
- “The Borgias” (2011) – This TV series extensively features Vatican City during the notorious Borgia family’s rule over the Catholic Church.
- “The Two Popes” (2019) – This biographical drama, set primarily within the Vatican, explores the relationship between Pope Benedict XVI and future Pope Francis.
- “The New Pope” (2020) – A sequel to the TV series “The Young Pope,” this show continues the story within the Vatican’s hallowed halls.
- “Habemus Papam” (2011) – An Italian drama that tells the story of a newly elected Pope who suffers a panic attack, set against the backdrop of Vatican City.
- “The Vatican Tapes” (2015) – Though a horror film, the Vatican plays a significant role in an exorcism storyline.
These films not only provide moviegoers with captivating narratives but also offer a glimpse into Vatican City’s historic and architectural wonders.
5 TV Shows Set in Vatican City
Vatican City’s unique culture and picturesque landscapes have made it an ideal setting for many TV shows and series. Here’s a look at five shows that capture the essence of this spiritual city-state:
- “The Borgias” (2011-2013) – This historical-fiction drama series showcases the notorious Borgia family’s reign in the Vatican during the Renaissance.
- “The Young Pope” (2016) – The series follows a newly elected Pope, the youngest in history and first American Pope, navigating politics within the Vatican.
- “The New Pope” (2020) – A sequel to “The Young Pope,” this series continues to explore Vatican politics with a new Pope at the helm.
- “Borgia” (2011-2014) – Another take on the infamous Borgia family, this series delves into the corruption and intrigue within the Vatican.
- “Inside the Vatican” (2019) – This documentary series offers a deep dive into the Vatican’s inner workings, capturing its history, architecture, and daily operations.
In these series, Vatican City is more than just a setting—it’s a character that adds to the narrative, enriching the stories with its unique spirit and charm.
Famous Books Set in Vatican City
Vatican City, known for its iconic St. Peter’s Basilica and its significant influence on the Catholic Church, has been a vibrant setting for many literary works. Below are some classic and contemporary books that bring the spirit of this city-state to life:
Contemporary:
- “Angels & Demons” by Dan Brown – Set against the backdrop of the Vatican, this gripping thriller delves into an ancient secret society’s conspiracy against the Church.
- “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown – While not entirely set in Vatican City, key elements of the plot involve the Catholic Church and its history.
- “Conclave” by Robert Harris – This novel offers a fascinating glimpse into the process of electing a new Pope, complete with political intrigue and scandal.
Classic:
- “The Shoes of the Fisherman” by Morris West – A tale of faith and power set in the Vatican, revolving around a cardinal who becomes Pope.
- “A Traveller in Rome” by H.V. Morton – Though not exclusively set in Vatican City, this travelogue offers insightful observations of Rome and the Vatican.
- “Hadrian the Seventh” by Frederick Rolfe – This novel tells the story of a failed priest who unexpectedly becomes Pope, offering an imaginative take on Vatican life.
Exploring Vatican City Filming Locations – Where to Go
With its remarkable architecture and religious significance, Vatican City serves as a captivating backdrop for filmmakers. Here are some essential filming locations in Vatican City you must visit:
- St. Peter’s Square – Frequently appearing in films due to its grandeur and importance, this square is one of Vatican City’s most iconic locations.
- Sistine Chapel – Known for its magnificent frescoes by Michelangelo, it’s been a setting in movies like “The Agony and the Ecstasy.”
- St. Peter’s Basilica – As one of the largest churches in the world, the basilica’s stunning interior and exterior have been featured in many films.
- Vatican Museums – Home to countless works of art and historical artifacts, these museums offer plenty of cinematic potential.
- Vatican Gardens – These beautifully maintained gardens provide a serene setting away from the city-state’s more bustling areas.
- Apostolic Palace – The official residence of the Pope has made appearances in several films and TV shows.
Exploring these locations offers a blend of entertainment and sightseeing, allowing you to engage with Vatican City’s film heritage while appreciating its religious and cultural significance.
Where to Sleep in Vatican City: Cheap and Luxury
As Vatican City itself does not offer accommodations to tourists, nearby Rome provides a diverse array of sleeping accommodations, from the ultra-luxurious to the budget-friendly.
Luxury Options:
- Hotel Eden – Offering breathtaking views of Rome, this hotel provides luxury and elegance just a short distance from the Vatican.
- The St. Regis Rome – Known for its opulent décor and top-tier service, this hotel promises a lavish stay.
- Fendi Private Suites – For those looking for luxury shopping and lodging in one place, this hotel is located above the flagship Fendi store in Rome.
Budget Options:
- Hotel Florida – A short walk from the Vatican, this hotel offers comfort at an affordable price.
- Colors Hotel – Known for its vibrant décor and friendly service, it’s an economical choice close to the Vatican.
- Hotel Alessandrino – This budget-friendly hotel offers a rooftop terrace with views of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Where to Eat in Vatican City: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury
While there are no restaurants inside Vatican City for the general public, the surrounding Rome area offers a wide variety of dining options. Here are three budget and luxury dining options to consider during your Vatican City visit.
Budget Options:
- Pizzarium – Known for its delicious and affordable pizza, this eatery is a short walk from the Vatican.
- Duecento Gradi – Offering a variety of sandwiches, salads, and craft beers, it’s a popular choice for a quick, budget-friendly meal.
- Old Bridge Gelateria – No trip to Italy is complete without gelato. This spot offers a wide variety of flavors at a reasonable price.
Luxury Options:
- La Pergola – As Rome’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant, this is the place for an extravagant and unforgettable dining experience.
- Ristorante Aroma – Located at the Palazzo Manfredi, diners can enjoy gourmet Italian cuisine while overlooking the Colosseum.
- Imí go – This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sophisticated menu and panoramic views of Rome.
Detailed Itinerary: Exploring Vatican City’s Filming Locations Day by Day
Embark on a cinematic journey through Vatican City, following in the footsteps of famous films shot within its walls. This five-day itinerary will guide you through the city-state’s iconic landmarks that have graced the silver screen.
Day 1: Begin with St. Peter’s Square, familiar from numerous films. Explore the square and enjoy the architectural beauty of the surrounding colonnades. In the afternoon, visit the Vatican Museums, home to a vast collection of art and historical artifacts.
Day 2: Spend your day exploring St. Peter’s Basilica, featured in films like “The Shoes of the Fisherman.” Climb to the top of the dome for a panoramic view of Vatican City and Rome.
Day 3: Visit the Sistine Chapel, known for its iconic frescoes by Michelangelo, and also a filming location for “The Agony and the Ecstasy.” In the afternoon, stroll through the Vatican Gardens, a location less frequented by tourists.
Day 4: Step outside Vatican City to visit Castel Sant’Angelo, a historic castle that has appeared in films like “Angels & Demons.” In the evening, enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants in Rome.
Day 5: Dedicate your final day to exploring Rome’s other cinematic locations, such as the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, and the Trevi Fountain. These famous landmarks have appeared in numerous films and offer a broader sense of the city’s cinematic history.
Cryptid Legends and Curiosities about Vatican City’s Film Industry
While Vatican City might not be associated with cryptid legends like Loch Ness or Bigfoot, the city-state holds its own share of mysteries and curiosities. These include rumors of hidden passages, secret archives, and even ghostly apparitions. Some believe that the Vatican’s extensive underground network, much of which remains off-limits to the public, is home to secrets that have inspired countless conspiracy theories and fictional narratives, including Dan Brown’s “Angels & Demons.”
Vatican City’s film industry is also subject to unique circumstances. Given its status as a religious and independent entity, filming within its walls requires special permissions. As a result, many productions resort to recreating the Vatican’s iconic locations in studios or using digital effects, as seen in “Mission: Impossible III” and “The Borgias”.
Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Filming Locations in Vatican City
Beyond its iconic landmarks, Vatican City harbors lesser-known spots that have served as filming locations. These include the Vatican Necropolis, a sprawling underground cemetery located beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Apostolic Palace’s lesser-known rooms. These hidden gems offer filmmakers unique, untapped settings for their narratives.
The Vatican Gardens, often overlooked by tourists, have also been used as a filming location. These beautifully maintained gardens offer a serene and picturesque setting, ideal for scenes requiring a sense of tranquility or grandeur.
What to Pack for a Trip to Vatican City
When packing for Vatican City, consider that it’s not just a city-state, but also a significant religious site. Respectful attire is required for entering St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, which means no shorts, miniskirts, or sleeveless tops.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the Vatican’s attractions involve a fair amount of walking. A small umbrella or raincoat is also recommended, as Rome can experience sudden showers. Don’t forget your camera to capture the architectural marvels and beautiful artworks.
Transportation Tips for Getting Around Vatican City
Vatican City is a pedestrian-only city-state, meaning there are no public transportation options within its walls. However, the city-state is compact and walkable. Most of its attractions, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, are within a short distance of each other.
For getting to Vatican City, Rome’s public transportation system offers several options. The Rome Metro has a stop near St. Peter’s Square, and numerous buses stop in the area as well. Taxis and rideshares like Uber are also readily available.
Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Vatican City
Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy. However, it’s open to the public and does not require a separate visa or passport for entry. To visit Vatican City, you only need the travel documents required for Italy, which include a valid passport or ID card for EU citizens, and a passport and possibly a visa for non-EU citizens.
When planning your visit, remember to check the opening hours of the attractions you wish to visit. Some sites, like the Sistine Chapel, may require tickets that should be booked in advance to avoid long queues.
Conclusion: Your Ultimate Vatican City Movie Tour Guide
Vatican City, with its spiritual allure and architectural grandeur, offers a unique travel experience for movie buffs and bookworms. Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema or contemporary TV series, Vatican City’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems will transport you into your favorite scenes. So pack your bags and get ready for your ultimate Vatican City movie tour!
