New Entry Measures at the Vatican Museums from January 1, 2024
by Adriana ruiz
Plan your visits to the Vatican Museums with the latest changes coming into effect on January 1, 2024. In anticipation of the significant 2025 Jubilee event and aiming to enhance the accessibility and experiential quality of the pontifical collections, the Directorate of the Museums and Cultural Heritage is implementing substantial modifications to the existing public admission policies. These adjustments address critical issues that have arisen in the aftermath of the pandemic-related tourism recovery.
Starting from January 1, 2024, the new measures will be in place. To better distribute attendance across an extended timeframe for improved visit quality and safety, the daily opening hours will be extended. The museums will be open to all from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with the last entry at 5:00 p.m.
During the high tourist season, beginning in March, there will be further extensions on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as specified days, until 8:00 p.m., with the last entry at 6:00 p.m.
In line with this approach, a group size limit will be implemented, allowing each accredited tour guide to have a maximum of 20 visitors.
A new ticketing system, guided by principles of transparency and efficiency, will provide solutions for individuals, pilgrims, families, schools, and sector operators, ensuring everyone’s specific needs are addressed. Special measures will be taken to combat secondary ticketing and automated ticket purchasing (BOT), involving IT measures and the introduction of nominative tickets, accompanied by thorough identity checks.
Additionally, a comprehensive project is underway to progressively introduce air conditioning to all exhibition rooms, prioritizing the health and well-being of visitors.
These innovations are part of a broader reorganization of the management and reception policies of the Vatican Museums, aligning with their identity and mission to effectively balance the protection and conservation of artworks with the accessibility needs of the general public.
Read more about:
Free entry to museums and archaeological sites in Italy on the 1st Sunday of each month
15 Must-Visit Museums, Galleries, and Cultural Sites in Italy
A Comprehensive Guide to Visiting the Vatican Museums: Art, History, and Skip-the-Line Tips
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