A video showcasing the exclusive opening of the Vatican Museums has mesmerized viewers on TikTok.
The clip, which was captured on October 18, has garnered over 432,000 views since it was shared by Fernanda Cabral (@fcm0909), a Brazilian communications specialist, on November 15.
"POV [point of view] you open the Vatican Museums," reads a caption overlaid on the video.
Cabral told Newsweek "It was one of the most magical moments of my life, truly an unforgettable experience," noting that this exclusive access was part of a private tour booked via GetYourGuide.
The video begins with a dramatic shot of lights illuminating a grand interior hallway, revealing intricate architecture bathed in warm golden tones.
A hand holding a large ring of keys is later seen unlocking massive doors and gates, which lead to awe-inspiring museum spaces adorned with statues and other historical treasures.
Cabral said: "The tour started at 6 a.m. and the key masters opened the museums just for us, and me and my group were the first ones to access the museums that day—having the privilege of opening the doors and turning on the lights ourselves."
The viral post comes as more than half of Americans (57 percent) are preparing for winter travel, with 96 percent planning to travel as much or even more than last winter, according to a Tripadvisor survey released earlier this month.
Travel spending remains strong among Americans, with 93 percent of those surveyed planning to spend the same as or more than they did in 2023, while 53 percent plan to increase their budget, the Tripadvisor study found.
Referred to as "the Museum of Museums," the Vatican Museums house extensive collections of art, archaeology and ethnography curated by popes over the centuries. Highlights include the Apostolic Palace's ornate rooms and the Sistine Chapel.
Located within the Apostolic Palace, the Sistine Chapel is renowned for its intricate frescoes. The walls depict stories of Moses and Christ, along with portraits of the popes. Michelangelo's legendary ceiling, completed in 1512, portrays scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the iconic Creation of Adam.
'Absolutely Stunning'
Cabral told Newsweek that "opening the Sistine Chapel was obviously the highlight, but accessing the museums in the silence was so very special," noting that they were able to access some areas that are typically private and "the views are amazing."
The poster also said their tour guide shared "some very interesting facts about all the amazing pieces that are in the museums."
Viewers on TikTok were blown away by the rare glimpse into the opening moments of the Vatican Museums.
"The most beautiful museum in the world," commented lauradionesalvi. Another user, Shantia B, said "One of the most beautiful places I've ever seen in person!"
Others expressed a longing to witness the splendor for themselves. "Magnificent! I would love to experience this," wrote Blacque Queenology. Another viewer, Allison, called the scene "Breathtaking," while @nanii_787 simply described it as "Absolutely stunning."
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