Fact Sheet about Vatican Splendors in St. Paul 

FACT SHEET 

WHAT:                          One of the largest collections of art, documents and historically significant objects from the Vatican ever to tour North America is coming to St. Paul. The Minnesota History Center hosts “Vatican Splendors from Saint Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Swiss Guard” beginning Sept. 27, 2008. The exhibition features approximately 200 rare works of art and historically significant objects, many of which have never left the Vatican. Taken together these works explore how the papacy has influenced – and been influenced by – the world throughout the centuries. 

St. Paul is one of only three U.S. cities to host “Vatican Splendors.” Highlights of the exhibition include Michelangelo's compass and tools used in the building of the Sistine Chapel; works by Bernini, Giotto, Guercino and others; artwork dating back to the third century; venerated relics (bone fragments) of Saint Peter; the pastoral staff of Pope John Paul II and items from the election of Pope Benedict XVI, including election ballots, a ceremonial vestment and an actual white smoke cartridge used to announce the election of the pope.

WHEN:                         Vatican Splendors from Saint Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Swiss Guard opens Sept. 27, 2008, for a limited, exclusive engagement.  Tickets go on sale Aug. 7. 

Hours for “Vatican Splendors” will be Mondays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.vaticansplendors.com

WHERE:                       The Minnesota History Center is located at 345 Kellogg Boulevard West on the western edge of downtown St. Paul. For directions and parking instructions, visit www.mnhs.org/historycenter/directions. 

TICKETS:                     Tickets are $20 for adults, $17 for seniors and  $13 for children (age 6-12). Children 5 and under are free with adult ticket purchase.  Tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster locations including Macy’s, or by phone at 651-989-5151. Tickets may also be purchased at the Minnesota History Center box office located at 345 Kellogg Boulevard West in St. Paul. Special group discount for 15+ tickets is available by calling 612-373-5665. School groups can call 651-259-3400. Special themed events can be booked by calling 651-259-3030 or E-mailing specialevents@mnhs.org call 1-877-2VATICAN (1-877-282-8422); or visit www.vaticansplendors.com

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