Sistine Chapel ceiling, Fresco cycle in Sistine Chapel, Vatican City
The ceiling spans 40.93 meters in length and 13.41 meters in width, featuring over 300 figures painted through the fresco technique by Michelangelo.
Pope Julius II commissioned Michelangelo to paint the ceiling between 1508 and 1512, replacing the previous decoration of painted stars on a blue background.
The central panels depict nine scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the separation of light from darkness and the creation of Adam.
Visitors can observe the ceiling from the chapel floor, where markers indicate the best viewing positions for examining the detailed biblical narratives.
Michelangelo painted the entire ceiling while standing on scaffolding, developing neck strain that he documented in his personal writings.
Inception: 1508
Creator: Michelangelo
Height: 4,093 cm
Width: 1,341 cm
Made from material: fresco
Part of: Sistine Chapel
GPS coordinates: 41.90278,12.45417
Latest update: May 27, 2025 19:50
Rome combines ancient monuments with modern city squares. The city preserves Roman Empire remains alongside Renaissance palaces and Baroque fountains. The Vatican contains major art collections and religious sites. The neighborhoods display Roman traditions and Italian culture.
Italy presents architecture from two millennia, from Roman temples to Renaissance museums. The country features volcanic zones near Naples, stone dwellings in Matera, and canals in Venice. Religious structures include St. Mark's Basilica, while art museums display Renaissance collections.
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