Vatican City, Rome

Ensuring entry to the Vatican a tour you must book
With so many artefacts hard knowing where to look.
Shuffled along with the hoards unable to make a turn
Past intricately carved statues & smooth marbled urns.

Our blue haired guide informing our earphones from the helm
The ostentatiousness of exhibits made me feel overwhelmed.
Privileged to see amazing wall tapestries up so close
But felt quite appalled by so many things grandiose.

Historical relics on show some enhanced with gold leaf
Listening to stories of grotesque pillage in utter disbelief.
Lengthy corridors with ceilings adorned with incredible art
The artist skills truly admired but I just wanted to depart.

Exited out into the infamous Saint Peter’s square
Grateful for the Basilica’s shade and fresh air.
It’s importance to all Catholics I can appreciate
The Vatican City, one of two Italian micro states.

Totally exhausted needed to navigate our way home
Not so simple those underground tunnels in Rome!
Ascending endless stairs finally excited to see
An avenue lined with colourful revving Ferraris.

The Mille Miglia race cars cruising along Via Venito
Resulted in peak hour chaos with areas a no go.
Had to wait for our return bus for over an hour
Relieved to get back for a well deserved shower.Read more