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.
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.
Istituto per le Opere di Religione
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Scuola vaticana di paleografia diplomatica e archivistica
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Académie de Besançon
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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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Cappella Niccolina
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Cortile del Belvedere
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Sistine Chapel
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The Last Judgment
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Gallery of Maps
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Vatican Apostolic Library
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Vatican Apostolic Archive
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Fountain of the Dolphins
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The Madonna della Pietà
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Fontana del Sacramento
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Fontana Quadrangolare di Gianlorenzo Bernini
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Chiesa di Sant'Egidio a Borgo
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Essential places to dine
Borgo Nuovo
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Alice Pizza Via delle Grazie
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Pastasciutta
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Pinecone Bistro
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Ristorante Trattoria Da Marcella
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Caffetteria Centrale
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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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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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Massi Souvenir
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Italian Style
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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
Tomb of Saint Peter
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Caffè Leonina
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Al Mio Caffè
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Vatican Necropolis
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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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