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No stay in Rome hotels would be complete without a visit to the heart of the Italian capital - Vatican City. Home to the head of the Catholic Church - the Pope - Vatican City is also where you'll find a wealth of stunning architecture and fantastic artwork, so browse accommodation and find hotel discounts for a trip to Rome. Once you've found the perfect accommodation for your needs, set about exploring Vatican City, with its charming and picturesque buildings and gardens. The world's smallest state, Vatican City is governed by the Pope, so why not pay a visit to his official residence? The papal palace is guarded by Swiss soldiers but visitors are welcome to explore the parts open to the public. Among the most awe-inspiring sections of the buildings are the four rooms on the second floor known as the Raphael Rooms. They were chosen by former Pope Julius II della Rovere as his official residence and decorated by the renowned painter Raphael and his students between 1508 and 1524 and now form part of the Vatican Museum. Outside, take a stroll around the magnificent Vatican Gardens where you can take in the artistically crafted sculptures and mesmerising fountains amid the lush greenery of the gardens, established in the Renaissance and Baroque eras. A major draw for visitors to Vatican City is the exquisite Sistine Chapel. The beautiful building is known the world over for its curved ceiling, which was painted by the grand master Michelangelo. Throughout the opulently decorated structure you'll find frescoes by the painter, as well as other famous artists like Raphael, Botticelli and Bernini. Head on next to St Peter's Basilica to take in some more stunning architecture. The late Renaissance church is truly a spectacle to behold and includes a dome that was redesigned at one point by Michelangelo. Striking buildings abound in Vatican City and Castel Sant' Angelo is no exception. The building was first established as a mausoleum built for the emperor Hadrian but was later used as a prison and then a papal residence. Now, the fortress is home to a museum where you can see antique weapons, pottery and Renaissance paintings. There's plenty more to explore here too, so waste no time in getting know the city on your holiday to Rome. Why not take advantage of some of the hotel discounts available for breaks in Scotland's capital this year? There are many Rome hotels to choose from, from trendy boutiques and cosy B&Bs, to luxury hotels.
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