The Vatican Secretariat of State: Heart of Vatican Governance
Discover the Vatican Secretariat of State, the pivotal hub of the Holy See's governance and diplomacy within Vatican City.
The Vatican Secretariat of State, located in Vatican City, is a pivotal institution overseeing the governance of the Holy See. Tourists can explore its historical significance and connection to the Papacy.
A brief summary to Vatican Secretariat of State
- Vatican City, 00120, VA
- Visit website
Local tips
- While you cannot tour the Secretariat, visit nearby St. Peter's Basilica for breathtaking architecture.
- Consider visiting during a weekday for a quieter experience in Vatican City.
- Check for any special events or exhibitions taking place in Vatican City during your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
Exit the Vatican Library through the main entrance. Once outside, head towards the Vatican Museums exit, which is approximately a 10-minute walk straight ahead. As you exit the Museums, you will see St. Peter's Basilica to your right. Continue walking straight along Viale Vaticano until you reach the intersection with Via della Conciliazione. Cross the road towards St. Peter's Basilica and continue walking until you reach the entrance to the Vatican Secretariat of State. It will be on your left side, right next to the Apostolic Palace.
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Public Transportation
From the Vatican Library, walk to the nearest bus stop located on Viale Vaticano. Take Bus 64 towards Stazione San Pietro. After a short ride of about 5 minutes, get off at the stop named 'Piazza San Pietro.' From there, walk towards St. Peter's Basilica, cross the square, and you will find the Vatican Secretariat of State on your left, next to the Apostolic Palace. Note: A single bus ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi from the Vatican Library. Simply request a taxi at the library entrance or use a taxi-hailing app. The ride to the Vatican Secretariat of State should take around 5 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi fares in Rome start at approximately €3.00, with an additional charge per kilometer.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vatican Secretariat of State
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Discover the Vatican Secretariat of State, the pivotal hub of the Holy See's governance and diplomacy within Vatican City.
Cappella Niccolina
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Explore the artistic brilliance of Cappella Niccolina, a hidden chapel in the Vatican Museums, featuring stunning Renaissance frescoes and historical significance.
Lapidary Gallery
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Explore the exquisite Lapidary Gallery in Vatican City, showcasing ancient inscriptions and sculptures that tell timeless stories of artistry and civilization.
The Last Judgment
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Explore The Last Judgment, Michelangelo's breathtaking fresco in the Sistine Chapel, a pinnacle of Renaissance art and spirituality in Vatican City.
Istituto per le Opere di Religione
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Explore the Istituto per le Opere di Religione, the Vatican's financial heart, intertwined with the rich tapestry of faith and history.
Scuola vaticana di paleografia diplomatica e archivistica
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Discover the Scuola Vaticana di Paleografia, an esteemed institution in Vatican City dedicated to the study of historical documents and archival practices.
Académie de Besançon
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Explore the Académie de Besançon, a serene library in Vatican City filled with historical texts and architectural beauty, perfect for book lovers and history buffs.
La Pietà di Michelangelo
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Porta San Pellegrino
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Unmissable attractions to see
Palace of the Belvedere
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Apostolic Palace
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Fontana del Cortile del Belvedere dei Palazzi Vaticani
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Cortile del Belvedere
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Sistine Chapel
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Gallery of Maps
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Discover the mesmerizing Gallery of Maps in Vatican City, showcasing Renaissance artistry through stunning frescoed maps of Italy, a cultural gem for every traveler.
Vatican Apostolic Library
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Discover the majestic Vatican Apostolic Library, a treasure trove of manuscripts and art steeped in history and culture.
Vatican Apostolic Archive
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Explore the Vatican Apostolic Archive, a vital repository of history and culture in the heart of Vatican City, showcasing centuries of papal documents and manuscripts.
Pio-Clementine Museum
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Explore the Pio-Clementine Museum: A masterpiece of classical art and sculptural wonders in Vatican City, rich in history and culture.
Gallery of Tapestries
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Explore the exquisite Gallery of Tapestries in Vatican City, where intricate artistry meets rich historical narratives in a stunning Renaissance setting.
Chiesa di Sant'Anna dei Palafrenieri
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Experience the serene beauty of Chiesa di Sant'Anna dei Palafrenieri in Vatican City, a peaceful retreat for reflection and exploration.
Saint Peter's Square
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Discover the grandeur of Saint Peter's Square, a historical and spiritual landmark in Vatican City, surrounded by stunning architecture and rich tradition.
St. Peter's Basilica
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Explore St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and the spiritual heart of Vatican City, rich in art and history.
Chiaramonti Museum
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St. Peter Square Obelisk
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Essential places to dine
Borgo Nuovo
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Alice Pizza Via delle Grazie
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Experience authentic Roman pizza at Alice Pizza Via delle Grazie, just steps from Vatican City - where flavor meets tradition in every slice.
Pastasciutta
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Pinecone Bistro
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Ristorante Trattoria Da Marcella
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Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Trattoria Da Marcella, just steps away from Vatican City.
Caffetteria Centrale
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Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Caffetteria Centrale inside Vatican Museums - perfect for tourists seeking delicious food and relaxation.
BorgoPio92 Bistrò Caffè
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Cibofficina
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Ristorante Da Marcello
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Ristorante Krugh
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Cafe Risorgimento
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Creperia Michelangelo
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Experience authentic French-style crêpes at Creperia Michelangelo, where every bite takes you on a flavorful journey in the heart of Rome.
KUNGFU EXPRESS
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200 Gradi
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Ristorante Arlù
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vatican Pharmacy
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Annona Vatican City
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La Caffeteria
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Galleria Mariana
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Bookshop Benedetto XVI
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Explore Bookshop Benedetto XVI: A serene Christian book store in Vatican City, offering a rich selection of spiritual literature and unique religious artifacts.
Massi Souvenir
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Italian Style
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Discover exquisite Italian jewelry that embodies elegance and craftsmanship at Italian Style in the heart of Rome.
Serpilli Snc
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Porta Angelica Srl
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Tourist Information Office
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Roma Eterna S.R.L.
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Mango Arredi Sacri
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Brugnetti Giuliana
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SACRIS - ARTICOLI RELIGIOSI E SOUVENIRS
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Conny di Pede Concetta
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Caffè Leonina
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Al Mio Caffè
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Bar Delle Grazie
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American bar - Vecchio Borgo S.r.l.
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Anni 70
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Bar L'Ottagona
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Morrison's Risorgimento
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Fe.ma.
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Caffè Vaticano
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Terrazza 1919
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Cafe San Pietro
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Duecento gradi
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NEW KING CLUB
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Vatican Hill
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Gardens of Vatican City
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Kukac
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Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kukac, Rome's premier girl bar, where entertainment and ambiance create unforgettable memories.
Radio Vaticana - Museo ed Uffici Amministrativi
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Discover the legacy of communication at Radio Vaticana Museum, a unique glimpse into the Vatican's historical media journey.
Saxophone Live Pub
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La Zanzara
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Bukowski's Bar
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Emerald's Independent Bar
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Chill
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Roof Garden & Bar
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Terrazza Les Étoiles Roma
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The Basement - Pub. Cocktail Bar. Events
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Bar Novecentotredici
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