I will be in Rome in March, this morning I received an email from the Vatican informing me that: Dear Madam/Sir, with reference to your reservation we inform you that, due to events beyond our control, unpredictable at the booking stage, The Art & Faith guided tours, will be cancelled for the entire month of March 2013. I am wonderfing if:know 1. Is the Vatican closed for tours? 2. Should we book with a recommended tour agency? 3. Is there an audio tour we can download? Any advice is appreciated.
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
Right now it's just the tour that includes the basilica that is canceled. You can book the regular tour but be aware that they will probably not include the chapel as it's set to be closed most of the month of March. The basilica will be open but just not offered on the tours. It may be because for that tour they go through the chapel to get to the tour door to continue to the chapel. This is an easy way to keep the group together. I'm just guessing but that's my thought. Donna
Posted by
Portland, OR
282 posts
I would imagine that if the Vatican cancelled its own tour, then no tours will be allowed.
Posted by
Scottsdale, AZ, USA
1127 posts
If I remember correctly when Pope John Paul II died the Vatican Museum remained open most of the time but the Sistine Chapel was closed. The Vatican Museum website is still allowing admission tickets but not for tours. It may be that since entry to the Sistine Chapel cannot be guaranteed the tours specifically stating the Chapel is part of the tour have been canceled. Your best best may be to contact a tour agency to inquire about tours and cancellation policy. Will you still be interested in a tour of the museum if the Sistine Chapel is closed? The Vatican Museum has an audio guide available for rental, if it is open.
Posted by
OP
Virginia Beach, VA, USA
2 posts
I booked the, now cancelled, tour through the Vatican. I am most surely interested in seeing the Vatican museum and as much of Vatican city as I can, although I am, of course, disappointed that the Sistene Chapel will likely remain closed throughout my visit. (Oh, but if the Cardinals should apply themselves promptly to the task, perhaps not!)
I very much appreciate you sharing your experience of the Vatican's opening after the passing of Pope John Paul II. This is very good to know. Also, the knowledge that I can purchase/rent the recordings for the tour at the door, very important, thank you.