Use this ultra-convenient escorted service to enjoy a Papal Audience with Pope Benedict XVI in the Vatican City. Meet your guide at 0745h (7:45am) on the corner of Largo degli Alicorni in Piazza Pio XII (on the street corner facing St. Peter’s Square). The guide will be holding a sign saying ‘Legacy of the Vatican’.
Your escort will have your tickets ready and will guide you through the crowds of pilgrims. An early arrival will ensure that you get good seats. The actual location of the Papal Audience caries according to the time of year. During spring and summer Audience is held outdoors at St. Peter’s Square while in the colder months the Audience takes place in the Sala of Paul VI within the Leonine Walls of Vatican City. The decision regarding the location of the Papal Audience is made by Vatican officials the day before the event.
Before the Papal Audience begins, you will watch a presentation on theLegacy of the Vatican. This unveils the fascinating history of the Papacy and the artists that contributed to the marvel of Vatican City. You will be provided with headsets and guided to your seats in St. Peter’s Square or the Sala of Paul VI.
Once seated, your guide will explain the origin of the Papacy from the first Christians through Constantine’s era and up to the current wonder of the Holy See. You will discover the history of St. Peter’s Square created by Bernini in the 17th century as you become familiar with the smallest sovereign state in the world. Your guide will provide a detailed explanation of the events of the Papal Audience and prepare you for your meeting with Pope Benedict XVI.
When the Papal Audience begins you will experience awe and wonder as the Cardinals preach in various languages to reach out to pilgrims and visitors from the far reaches of the world. Listen to the Pope’s weekly message as he enters the central stage. Feel free to sing with the spiritual leaders of the Church and pray with the Pope – the Head of State of Vatican City.
The Audience ends about noon and it is then your responsibility to arrange your own transport back to your hotel or other destination.