National Geographic - Inside the Vatican (2010)
Inside the Vatican
Vatican. For most people the word brings to mind the Pope, the Roman Catholic Church and magnificent art and architecture. However, there is much more to this ecclesiastical state. Inside the Vatican takes viewers to some of the most revered places in the world and to sacred ceremonies seldom seen by outsiders. The power of the place is inescapable and a long way from its humble origins as a graveyard. For nearly 2000 years its story has captured the imagination of millions. From here a religious faith grew to dominate the Western world. Crusades were launched, great inquisitions were convened, governments made and broken. Included in this incredible tour are interviews with the men and women, from art restorers to religious leaders, who live and work inside the Vatican. Through their fascinating stories, we present what goes into maintaining the paintings, tapestries and documents of an institution that traces its history to the first century. The Vatican may be one of the most famous places in the world, but it's also among the most mysterious; very few people have seen what lies beyond the Vatican's walls, and even fewer journalists have had free access to the tiny walled city that is the home of the Catholic Church. In 2001, National Geographic was given permission to enter the Vatican with a camera crew, and this documentary examines the city's 2000 years of history, as well as documenting the Vatican's historical archives and documenting private chapels which had never before been photographed to viewing by the public. Martin Sheen serves as host and narrator.
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