Author: Brandon Shaw

Types of Gladiators that Fought in the Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of Europe‘s most mystical monuments for many reasons but above all its use. It is difficult to believe today that people would fight to their death in front of 60k+ spectators but it happened. This article is about the many different types of Gladiators that fought in the Colosseum. The Origins […]

Ultimate Guide to the Vatican Gallery of Tapestries

Among all the amazing art that the Vatican Museums have to offer, the Vatican Gallery of Tapestries is surely one of the most astonishing. You’ll see the work of artist Raphael Sanzio brought to life by Belgian tapestry makers. In this guide, we cover what you need to know about the Vatican Gallery of Tapestries […]

Best Time to Visit the Vatican: After Hours and Without Crowds

Picture this: The doors close, the tourists vanish and you have the Vatican all to yourself. No selfie sticks. No tour groups shuffling past. Just you, in the Sistine Chapel in complete silence. Sound impossible? It’s absolutely possible. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Vatican after hours.

Laocoön and His Sons: Facts, History and His Mysterious Arm

Headed to the Vatican Museums and want to understand more about one of its most famous works of art? Discover the facts and history of Laocoön and His Sons from an official Rome tour guide and how the statue culminated in a centuries-long practical joke that Michelangelo played on the Roman art scene. Pro Tip: Planning […]

When Was Vatican City Built: From a Licensed Vatican Tour Guide

Did you know one of our co-founders is a licensed Vatican tour guide? Home of the Vatican Museums, Vatican City is considered its own country apart from Rome. So, when was Vatican City built? In this detailed account from a guide himself, learn about the construction of Vatican City and how it has become the […]