Why the Sistine Chapel is special
The Sistine Chapel in Vatican City contains two of the world's most celebrated frescoes, "Genesis" and "The Last Judgment".
The first is a set of Genesis-themed frescoes painted on the Sistine Chapel's high vaulted ceiling by the then young Michelangelo. He began the project in 1508 and finished four years later. His best known Genesis ceiling fresco depicts God creating Adam (see photo).
Two decades later, Michelangelo painted "The Last Judgment" on the large wall behind the Sistine Chapel's altar. It took him six years (1535-1541) to complete it.
Michelangelo's works are not the only treasured frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Botticelli's "Temptations of Christ", for instance, is a masterpiece.

Where popes are chosen
The Sistine Chapel is more than an art lover's paradise. It's the pope's official private chapel and the room where cardinals from around the world convene to elect new popes. It was named for its 15th century benefactor, Pope Sixtus IV.

No direct entrance for visitors
The only way a tourist can reach the Sistine Chapel is through the Vatican Museums (which, incidentally, are collectively a Hillman Wonder Silver Medal winner).

What leading travel books say about the Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is alive with color and human emotion.
Italy
Insight Guides

The Sistine Chapel is a work of immense proportions.
Italy
Knopf Guides