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This week’s travel photo is of the Belvedere Courtyard (Cortile del Belvedere) in the Vatican City. I took this photo out of a window while walking through the Vatican Museums towards the Sistine Chapel. Visiting the Vatican City is one of my favourite travel moments.
More about Belvedere Courtyard
The Belvedere Courtyard (Cortile del Belvedere) in Vatican City is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and one of the most iconic spaces in the Vatican Museums. Designed in the early 16th century by architect Donato Bramante for Pope Julius II, the courtyard was originally intended to connect the Vatican Palace with the Villa Belvedere, a retreat for the Pope. This monumental space, with its grand terraces and harmonious proportions, became a model for Renaissance urban design. Over time, the courtyard was divided into three interconnected courtyards: the Cortile della Pigna, named after the massive bronze pinecone statue; the Cortile della Biblioteca; and the Cortile del Belvedere itself. Today, the Belvedere Courtyard is a focal point of the Vatican Museums, often visited en route to its world-famous galleries. It also houses important works of art, including ancient statues such as the Apollo Belvedere and the Laocoön, both of which have profoundly influenced Western art and culture
Great photo! I’m not Catholic, but Vatican City is top on my places to visit someday!
The Time-Crunched Traveler (Ellen) recently posted..7 ways to experience Olympic magic at Lake Placid
Thanks Ellen! I’m not Catholic either or in fact religious at all, but the Vatican City is one of the most amazing places I have been. You don’t have to be religious to appreciate it 🙂 Cheers
Dean Wickham recently posted..A Dream Come True: Trekking the Milford Track in New Zealand
Wow! What a view Dean!
Nomadic Samuel recently posted..Laughing on the phone | Penang, Malaysia | Travel Photo
Indeed it is, Sam! I had a lot of “wow moments” when I was in the Vatican City.
Dean Wickham recently posted..Staying in Byron Bay, Australia with Roomorama