101 Surprising Facts about St. Peter's and the Vatican

What do you really know about Vatican City? The Vatican, comprising the Apostolic Palace, St. Peter's Basilica, and various other buildings, serves as the headquarters of the Catholic Church. It has done so for nearly two millennium -- ever since the first Pope, St. Peter, made it his home. Thousands of Catholics flock to the Vatican and its iconic basilica each year. Even if you haven't visited you've likely watched with bated breath for smoke to rise from behind the cupola during the election of a new pope, or have laid eyes on the new pontiff when he emerged from the balcony for the first time. But what do you really know about this great basilica and the city that houses it? Here, Father Jeffrey Kirby takes you on a whirlwind tour of this little country (yes, Vatican City is its own country, Fact # 2) and uncovers the secrets and surprising facts about the city, and its famous church. Discover what language degree you need to work a Vatican ATM, what architectural feature of St. Peter's is a map of the universe, and even what the pope's license plate number is. Along the way, you'll find the deep theological meaning woven into the design and architectural features of St. Peter's Basilica and Vatican. Whether you've already been to Rome or are still planning your first trip, 101 Surprising Facts About the Vatican will transport you to Basilica and City at the heart of the Catholic Church -- and enable you to appreciate them like never before.