Sistine Chapel

As you wander through the maze that leads you to the Sistine Chapel, you are confronted with room after room filled with infamous sacred imagery; that is, more than famous. Most people know the work of Raphael, Michelangelo, and the other Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. But there are some sacred relics that are lesser known, yet still quite important, amidst the acres of better-known pope swag.

Imagine my surprise when I walked through an unassuming little door into The Pope Poncho Room.


Or when I discovered the sacred implement that the Holy Father turns to when he simply must have a slice of that New York Cheesecake: The Sacred Pie Knife of Santa Maria Callenderus.


And, when there is a nail sticking out in the Holy Bedchamber that must be made flush, there is only one tool for the job: The Holy Hammer of San Stanley Burrellus.