Musée historique du Vatican

The Vatican Historical Museum, located in Vatican City, is a unique section of the Vatican Museums. Founded in 1973 by Pope Paul VI, it was initially situated under the Square Garden before being moved to the Apostolic Palace of the Lateran in 1987 and opened to the public in 1991. The museum is housed in the Lateran Palace, a grand apartment complex designed by Domenico Fontana in 1586. The palace is adorned with impressive frescoes, colorful tapestries, and Gobelins, adding to its aesthetic elegance. The museum boasts a unique collection of portraits of the Popes dating back to the sixteenth century, memorable items from the Papal Military Corps of the 16–17th centuries, and old religious paraphernalia related to papal rituals. It also displays the papamobili (Popemobiles), which include carriages and motorcars used by Popes and Cardinals. The museum is divided into two wings. The principal wing houses all items of artistic and historical importance, including paintings of the history of the Papal States, portraits of Popes, and various ceremonial regalia. The second wing, an annex on the ground floor, is where the papamobili are displayed. Visiting the Vatican Historical Museum offers a unique insight into the history of the Papal States and the lives of the Popes. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, and the Catholic Church.