Vatican Museums' Histories

The Vatican Museums began in the early 16th century when Pope Julius II started collecting artworks to showcase Christian faith and renaissance artistry. Over the centuries, successive Popes expanded the collection, acquiring masterpieces from renowned artists like Michelangelo and Raphael. The museums grew into a vast cultural treasury, featuring stunning painted halls, classical sculptures, and religious artifacts. Today, they are one of the world's foremost art museums, open to millions of visitors annually. Their history reflects the Catholic Church’s role in preserving, commissioning, and celebrating art, history, and faith across centuries.