Short stature is no bar to enjoyment of the Sistine Chapel ceiling.

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The Sistine Chapel, whose famous ceiling was painted by Renaissance artist Michelangelo, has been closed to tourists while the preparations for the conclave are made.

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The Sistine Chapel and its ornate ceiling by Michelangelo are normally a must-see for tourists in Rome, but it was closed to the public beginning Tuesday afternoon to allow for preparations to take place.

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Far less modest are the adjacent Vatican Museums, an exhausting feast of art, and home to the world's most famous frescoes in the legendary Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo's astounding ceiling and wall frescoes that take the cake - picture terrified sinners and ravishing prophets bursting out in 3-D brilliance.

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Tourists and pilgrims are continuing to visit the Sistine Chapel -- famed for the ceiling painted by Michelangelo -- at the moment, Lombardi said.

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Highlights include the Sistine Chapel, featuring Michelangelo's famed ceiling fresco series and "Last Judgment, " works by Raphael, da Vinci, Caravaggio, and ancient wonders from Rome and Egypt.

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The domed living room ceiling is covered with replicas of Michelangelo's frescoes from the Sistine Chapel, all handpicked by his wife, Villoo.

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