WHAT:

One of the largest collections of art, documents and historically significant objects from the Vatican ever to tour North America is coming to Cleveland. The Western Reserve Historical Society hosts Vatican Splendors from Saint Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Swiss Guard beginning May 31, 2008. The exhibition features approximately 200 rare works of art and historically significant objects, many of which have never left the Vatican, that illustrate the Vatican’s impact on history and culture through 2,000 years.

Cleveland 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 May 31, 2008, for a limited, exclusive regional engagement through Sept. 7, 2008. Tickets go on sale April 14. Hours for Vatican Splendors will be Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.vaticansplendors.com.

WHERE:          

The Western Reserve Historical Society is located at 10825 East Boulevard in Cleveland’s University Circle district. For directions and parking instructions, visit www.wrhs.org.

TICKETS:        

Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $14 for children (age 6-12). Tickets can be purchased by calling 1-888-5VATICAN (1-888-582-8422) or online at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets also may be purchased at the Western Reserve Historical Society box office located at 10825 East Blvd. in Cleveland. For more information regarding group sales and special packages, contact Tickets for Groups at 1-800-840-1157 or visit www.ticketsforgroups.com.