Today, most people share content on Instagram, TikTok, or Telegram. It’s quick and easy.

But if you’re building a personal brand, sharing your marketing expertise, or showcasing your passion for cars, you need a blog you fully control.

The perfect solution? WordPress.

My Journey: From Telegram Posts to a Full Blog

I spent years posting on social media — marketing insights, behind-the-scenes work with clients, stories from my car projects. But over time, I noticed something: all that content vanished after a few days.

I wanted content that lives longer and brings people to me over time. That’s when I launched my WordPress blog.

Why Blog on WordPress When Social Media Exists?

1. You Own Your Content

“Don’t build your house on rented land.”

— Unknown digital strategist

On social media, you’re a tenant. Algorithms change, reach drops, accounts get blocked. On WordPress, you’re the owner. Your site, your domain, your structure. No one can take it away.

2. Unlimited Options for Content and Features

WordPress gives you full freedom:

– customize design

– install powerful plugins

– build email forms

– add a store

– run a blog, portfolio, courses — all in one place

Social platforms can’t offer that kind of flexibility.

3. You Get Free Traffic from Google

WordPress blog posts are indexed by search engines. One good article can bring readers for years. On social media, posts “die” within 24 hours.

Fact: Over 43% of all websites on the internet run on WordPress

Fact: SEO blogs generate 3.5x more leads than social media

 

4. Monetization Becomes Real

With a WordPress site, you can monetize easily:

– ads (Google AdSense)

– service sales (consulting, car reviews, marketing)

– affiliate links

– email funnels

– paid guides and premium content

On social platforms, you’re stuck with reach and trends.

5. Evergreen Content That Works for Years

Instagram and TikTok thrive on instant engagement. Your post is forgotten the next day. But on your blog, your content becomes evergreen. It’s searchable, shareable, and useful long after it’s published.

“Build assets, not just followers.”

— Seth Godin

How to Start a WordPress Blog: 5 Simple Steps

1. Register a domain 

2. Choose hosting (Hostinger)

3. Install WordPress (usually in 1 click)

4. Choose a theme (for design)

5. Publish your first post
   
   

💡 You’ll have a live blog in 30 minutes. In 30 days, you could get your first search traffic.

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Who Should Consider Blogging on WordPress:

– marketers, freelancers, creators

– car enthusiasts who write reviews or share projects

– anyone tired of relying on Instagram or TikTok

– people who want a stable, independent platform that works 24/7

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Final Thought: Your Blog is the Foundation. Social Media is Just the Funnel.

“Content is king, but distribution is queen — and she wears the pants.”

— Jonathan Perelman, BuzzFeed

WordPress gives you stability, SEO, freedom, and monetization. Social platforms are perfect for amplifying your message. Together, they’re powerful.

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What About You?

Do you already blog? Or still post only on social media? Drop a comment or message — I’d love to hear your story. Want a free checklist to launch your blog from scratch? Just let me know 🙌

One of the most difficult questions in life is what is truly essential for survival on planet Earth. I will try to figure this out based on my personal experience.

When you live a normal, stable life, with a secure job or a successful business, a well-renovated home, and people around you carrying iPhones, using Instagram, and watching YouTube podcasts, everything seems predictable. People drive Teslas, and Elon Musk is launching rockets into space.

But to truly understand what is important in life, you need to find yourself in a situation where everything becomes obvious. Such a moment happened in my life on February 22, 2022. Early in the morning, I heard explosions. I woke up, and my wife told me that war had begun. At that time, we were living in Kyiv, but my mind still struggled to grasp the reality of what was happening. My first thought was that it wouldn’t last long—just a brief scare, and everything would go back to normal.

I got ready and went to work, traveling from the left bank of Kyiv to the right. At that time, I was working as Head of Marketing at a large company. But on my way to the office, my boss called me and told me that the company was shutting down operations and that I needed to stop all active advertising campaigns immediately—the full-scale war had begun.

I returned home, and my family and I were horrified by the scale of what was happening. Explosions were echoing all around, people were in panic, not knowing where to run or what to do. Fortunately, there was a bomb shelter near our home, but it was overcrowded and filthy—no one had properly prepared it. And this was at a time when people were still wearing masks, terrified of COVID-19. But on February 22, 2022, COVID ended, and the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine began.

The next day, hopes that it would all end soon were fading fast. We decided to leave Kyiv. We first went to stay with friends in Bila Tserkva, but the war didn’t stop, and things only got worse. The news was saying that the war was costing Russia billions per day, that they had no more missiles, and that their equipment was outdated. But over time, I realized that this was just another lie—just like how people had been kept in the dark about the war and how the country had not been properly prepared for it.

By the third day of the war, we clearly understood that we needed to leave the country. But by then, Ukraine had already closed its borders for men, so we decided to drive to Uzhhorod, where I would take my family to the European border and stay behind.

And then the nightmare began—massive traffic jams, as millions of cars filled the roads heading toward Ukraine’s borders. Fuel was strictly rationed, with only 20 liters allowed per car at extremely high prices. The banking system collapsed—only cash was accepted. A trip that should have taken five hours took us two days.

When we finally reached the Slovakian border (because the Polish border had even more people), we got in line and waited another two days just to reach customs. Eventually, I said goodbye to my family and sent them off to Europe in our car, while I was left alone at the border, at night, with just a backpack.

We all know what has happened in Ukraine since then. Today, as I write this for my blog on March 24, 2025, the war is still ongoing.

If you still believe, as I once did, that war is impossible in the 21st century—that people couldn’t possibly kill each other over land, especially given humanity’s past experiences and technological advancements—let me warn you: wars will continue, even 100 years from now. No amount of progress will change that.

But as rational beings, after reading this, you will now understand what truly matters in life and how everything you have worked for can be lost in an instant.

What Truly Matters in a Crisis

1. Mobility (A Reliable Car)

Real estate—apartments, houses, garages—loses its value instantly and can be destroyed by a single missile. The most important thing, as it turned out, was having a car. To evacuate your family, you need a well-maintained vehicle with a full tank of fuel. Ideally, you should have more than one, as no one knows how far or how long you may need to travel. I saw abandoned cars on the roadside, left behind because they broke down. That’s terrifying—those vehicles held people’s entire lives.

At the time, we had a Mazda, which I had just repaired. It had a full tank of over 50 liters of gasoline and another 50 liters of LPG. Before leaving, I filled both tanks completely, which allowed us to reach the Slovakian border without refueling. Only in Uzhhorod, where it was still calm, was I able to refill the tank.

2. Cash

If you rely on credit cards, you are making a big mistake. Banks immediately blocked access to credit lines. If your money is in the bank, you become a hostage to the system. ATMs had massive lines, and cash ran out quickly. Banks limited withdrawals to as little as $100 per transaction to ensure everyone could get something. It’s crucial to have cash in multiple currencies, as exchange rates fluctuate dramatically. At one point, buying dollars in Ukraine required paying double in hryvnias—if dollars were even available at all.

3. Warm Clothing and Food

Warm clothing is critical because you never know when you might be left without shelter. If a missile hits your home, you could end up on the street in freezing temperatures. You must have a winter coat, insulated boots, and thermal underwear. When we were in the bomb shelter, we were freezing—warm clothing was our only salvation.

Food disappears from store shelves at an alarming rate. People grab anything with a long shelf life. When I went into supermarkets like Novus and Silpo in Kyiv, I saw nothing but empty shelves. But I still had to feed my family, including a one-year-old child.

4. Medicine

Medication sells out fast. You must have a fully stocked first aid kit for every family member.

What Loses Its Value in War

• Real estate: Your home can be destroyed, looted, or occupied.

• Expensive furniture, artwork, and bulky items: You can’t take them with you.

• Luxury goods: In a war zone, their value disappears.

If war broke out tomorrow, what would you take with you in a single suitcase? I’m sure it wouldn’t be a PlayStation or a desktop computer. Most likely, you’d grab gold, cash, a laptop, phones, and warm clothing.

War strips away illusions and shows you what truly matters: the ability to move, access to money, protection from the elements, and the means to survive.

On our last day in the beautiful city of Stuttgart, Germany, my family and I visited one of the most stunning places located outside the city – Schloss Solitude.

Schloss Solitude is a magnificent palace in the outskirts of Stuttgart, built between 1764 and 1769 by order of Duke Charles Eugene of Württemberg. It was designed as a secluded countryside residence, a symbol of luxury and aristocratic taste.

The Duke was known for his love of art and architecture, so the palace became not just a place of relaxation but also a true cultural center. Musical evenings, theatrical performances, and receptions were held here. However, the maintenance of the palace turned out to be too expensive, and soon Charles Eugene had to abandon his dream.

Over time, Schloss Solitude changed its purpose: it housed a military school, and later, an Academy of Arts. Today, it is a popular tourist destination where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views, elegant architecture, and a touch of German aristocratic history.

This place is also highly popular among newlyweds, as they come here to take wedding photos as a keepsake.

We were also very lucky because when we visited this place on February 15, 2025, there was fog, making the castle look like something out of a fairy tale. We were absolutely delighted with Schloss Solitude, as we were fortunate enough to see it in such a magical setting.

This place is a must-visit, as its atmosphere and architecture captivate at first sight. We will definitely return here again in the summer or spring.

📍 A Dream Come True

One of my long-time wishes, high on my bucket list, was to visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. As it turned out, the museum is closed on Mondays — just like the Porsche Museum. So, on Monday we went to explore the wonderful Stuttgart Zoo, and on Tuesday we finally returned to the Mercedes Museum. We had everything carefully planned, aiming to see as many Stuttgart attractions as possible and enjoy our short trip to the fullest.

🚗 First Plus — Parking and Convenience

Since I had already visited the BMW Museum in Munich, I could compare. Mercedes offers a dedicated parking area — very convenient, no stress trying to find street parking.

🛍 Souvenir Shop

Once you enter the museum, the Mercedes gift shop is on the right. You’ll find everything from clothing and keychains to collectible model cars — perfect for fans of the brand.

🎧 Next-Generation Audio Guide

After dropping off your coat in the cloakroom, you receive a smartphone and headphones. The audio guide is available in multiple languages (including Russian) and starts automatically as you move through the museum — no buttons to press or QR codes to scan. Super intuitive!

🧬 Architecture as Part of the Experience

The building itself is part of the attraction. Designed in the form of a triple helix, inspired by the DNA structure — it reflects the “genetic code” of Mercedes-Benz. You take the elevator to the top floor and begin your journey through time, moving downward through history — from the earliest vehicles to the latest innovations.

The entire route follows a gentle spiral slope, with no stairs. It’s a brilliantly designed space, where every detail is thoughtfully planned so visitors can focus purely on the experience.

🚒 Not Just Luxury Cars

The museum showcases not only the cars we see on the roads today but also a wide variety of commercial and historical vehicles:

• Mail delivery vans from World War II
• Classic fire trucks
• Vintage police cars
• Taxi models from different decades

🌍 Cars & World History Combined

What makes this museum truly unique is how it intertwines automotive development with world history. It offers context to each vehicle and era — making it fascinating even for those who aren’t typically interested in cars.

⚙️ Technologies of the Future

On the lower levels, you’ll find electric cars, hydrogen concepts, and futuristic prototypes. Mercedes offers a glimpse into the future of mobility and sustainable innovation.

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✅ Why You Should Visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum

• 🏛 Unique and futuristic architecture
• 🧭 Effortless and well-thought-out visitor flow
• 🎧 Audio guides available in Russian and other languages
• 🚗 Over 160 exhibits on display
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Suitable for both car enthusiasts and family tourists

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ℹ️ Practical Info

• 📍 Address: Mercedesstraße 100, 70372 Stuttgart, Germany
• 🚇 Public transport: Neckarpark station (S1 line)
• 🕘 Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, closed on Mondays
• 💶 Tickets: ~€10 for adults (check official site for latest prices)
• 🌐 Website: mercedes-benz.com/museum

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💬 Have you been to the Mercedes-Benz Museum? Share your impressions in the comments!

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Getting There

After visiting the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, I immediately headed to the Porsche Museum, located just about a 20-minute drive away. The museum offers convenient underground parking for guests, which is a real time-saver. However, the parking area is quite large, so make sure to remember or photograph your parking spot number — it will save you from wandering around later!

First Impressions

At the entrance, when purchasing the ticket, I was provided with an audio guide. It’s very intuitive: each car is labeled with a number — simply enter it into the device to hear the full story behind that particular vehicle. This simple feature transforms the visit into an engaging and interactive experience.

The Porsche Museum itself is relatively compact, making it perfect for exploring at a relaxed pace within just a couple of hours.

Architecture That Floats

The museum officially opened its doors on January 31, 2009. Its architecture is striking — the building seems to hover in the air, supported by only three massive columns. Designed by the renowned Austrian architectural firm Delugan Meissl, the structure perfectly reflects Porsche’s futuristic and innovative spirit.

A Legacy of Innovation

Porsche’s history stretches back to 1931 when the brilliant engineer Ferdinand Porsche founded “Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche GmbH” in Stuttgart. Initially, the company specialized in developing vehicles for other brands, with one of Ferdinand’s most iconic achievements being the creation of the legendary Volkswagen Beetle.

In 1948, the first car to carry the Porsche name — the 356 model — was introduced, thanks to Ferdinand’s son, Ferry Porsche. It was this model that marked the beginning of Porsche’s journey as a world-renowned sports car manufacturer.

Inside the museum, visitors can admire both classic and modern sports cars, including the legendary Porsche 911, 917, and many more.

Beyond the Cars

The Porsche Museum offers much more than just cars on display. Rare prototypes, powerful engines, and unique racing exhibits reveal the company’s deep roots in motorsport. Porsche’s success on the track is undeniable, with countless victories, especially in endurance races like the prestigious “24 Hours of Le Mans.”

Practical Tips for Visitors

🚗 Arrive early — Coming right at the museum’s opening time (usually around 9–10 AM) will help you avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.

☕ Take a break — Be sure to visit the museum café. It’s stylish, cozy, and reasonably priced — perfect for a coffee break or a light meal.

🛍️ Don’t miss the gift shop — Before leaving, stop by the Porsche shop to pick up high-quality souvenirs, clothing, or scale models. It’s a great way to take a piece of the experience home with you.

📸 Bring your camera — The museum’s sleek architecture and stunning car displays are incredibly photogenic, so come prepared to capture some amazing shots.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Porsche Museum is not just about seeing beautiful cars — it’s about experiencing the passion for innovation, engineering excellence, and the timeless pursuit of speed and perfection. Whether you’re a lifelong car enthusiast or simply curious, this place is an absolute must-visit.

On January 13, 2025, my family and I arrived in Stuttgart, Germany, and immediately headed to the Mercedes-Benz Museum, only to find out that it was closed on Mondays. We then thought of visiting the Porsche Museum, which is also located in Stuttgart, but it was closed as well. So, we decided to go to the Stuttgart City Library instead, and later, we visited the zoo, which we really enjoyed.

The Stuttgart City Library (Stadtbibliothek Stuttgart) is one of the most modern and impressive libraries in Germany. It was opened in 2011 and designed by the South Korean architect Eun Young Yi.

The building is a minimalist cube standing 9 stories tall, including two underground levels. Its central space is a bright atrium that extends several floors up, creating a sense of openness and lightness. Thanks to its futuristic design and functionality, the library has become not only a cultural hub but also one of the architectural landmarks of the city.

As we entered, we were greeted by a spacious, bright hall with high ceilings. A security guard was stationed at the entrance, but admission was free, so the three of us—my wife, my son, and I—walked in without any charge. Inside, there was an elevator, as well as a wide staircase, allowing visitors to move between floors at their own pace.

Each floor is dedicated to different book genres, such as history, poetry, science, and more. I was especially impressed by the atmosphere of the library—absolute silence, comfortable reading areas, and a sense of solitude, despite the number of visitors.
I found a Goethe volume, sat in a cozy corner, and enjoyed reading a few pages. Overall, we had a great time, as I love books and especially their smell.

 

One of the most fascinating features of the library is its lighting: during the day, the space is filled with natural light, while at night, the building is illuminated in a soft blue glow, creating a stunning visual effect.

Additionally, the library features a rooftop terrace that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Stuttgart. Unfortunately, we didn’t spend much time there, but we managed to take some great photos to remember the visit.

 

This visit turned out to be an unexpected discovery for us. Instead of exploring car museums, which were closed, we immersed ourselves in a world of books, architecture, and tranquility. After the library, we headed to Wilhelma Zoo, which also left us with a lot of great impressions.

At the end of our first day in Stuttgart, we also visited one of the most beautiful places in the city—Schloss Rosenstein.

Before traveling to Stuttgart, I made a list of places that were important for me to visit:

Monday, January 13, 2025

• City Library at the Mailänder Platz
• Wilhelma Zoo
• Schlossplatz
• Naturkundemuseum Stuttgart, Schloss Rosenstein
• Old Castle
• Schloss Solitude
• Sepulchral Chapel on Württemberg Hill

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

• Mercedes-Benz Museum
• Porsche Museum

We stayed at: Hampton by Hilton Stuttgart City Centre

Schloss Rosenstein: A Place Where Time Stands Still

Imagine a place where time seems to pause, and majestic architecture tells the stories of past centuries. This is Schloss Rosenstein—one of the most refined and mysterious landmarks in the heart of Stuttgart, Germany. If you love beautiful legends, breathtaking views, and the atmosphere of bygone luxury, this castle will leave an unforgettable impression on you.

Schloss Rosenstein is not just an architectural masterpiece but also an important cultural landmark. Located in the picturesque Rosenstein Park, it serves as a symbol of elegance and historical significance. In this article, I’ll share my impressions of visiting this remarkable place, dive into its history, architecture, and its role in modern-day Stuttgart.

 

How Legends Are Born: The History of Schloss Rosenstein

Imagine a king who dreams of a perfect retreat. In the early 19th century, King Wilhelm I of Württemberg commissioned the Italian architect Giovanni Salucci to create not just a castle but a true sanctuary of peace and inspiration. Unlike medieval fortresses built for defense, Schloss Rosenstein was designed purely for leisure and harmony with nature.

But even the most beautiful structures are not immune to time. During World War II, the castle suffered damage but was meticulously restored. Today, it is not just a historical landmark but a part of the State Museum of Natural History, which preserves fascinating secrets of nature and evolution.

Architectural Splendor: Why Does the Castle Look Like This?

If we could travel back 200 years and look into the eyes of Giovanni Salucci, he would proudly describe his vision for Schloss Rosenstein in the classical style. The strict symmetry, monumental columns, and grand portico give the castle its refined and majestic appearance.One of its most remarkable features is its location. Perched above the Neckar River, the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. This was the perfect escape for the royal family, a place where they could unwind from courtly affairs and enjoy the serenity of nature.

Schloss Rosenstein Today: What to Do and See?

Today, Schloss Rosenstein is a paradise for lovers of history, science, and nature. Inside, it houses one of Stuttgart’s most fascinating museums—the State Museum of Natural History. Here, you can see dinosaur fossils, rare minerals, ancient animal skeletons, and other unique exhibits, allowing you to touch millions of years of Earth’s history. This museum is especially captivating for families with children, as it features interactive exhibits and educational programs.

But it’s not just the museum that makes this place special. Surrounding the castle is the stunning Rosenstein Park, a green oasis amid the bustling city. Strolling along the shaded paths, you may encounter squirrels, birds, and even secret corners where members of the royal family once walked.If you have extra time, visit the nearby Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden—a place where you can spend an entire day marveling at nature’s wonders.

 

Why You Should Visit Schloss Rosenstein at Least Once in Your Life

This castle is more than just a beautiful building. It is a place where legends come to life, where architecture merges with nature, and where history intertwines with modernity. If you are looking for a place that will inspire you, fill you with unforgettable emotions, and allow you to escape the worries of daily life, then Schloss Rosenstein is your perfect destination.

So, when you find yourself in Stuttgart, don’t miss the chance to walk through these historic halls, breathe in the fresh air of the park, and feel the seamless blend of past and present. Who knows? Maybe this is where you’ll find your next source of inspiration.

Schloss Rosenstein is not just a castle—it is a living testament to Germany’s rich cultural heritage, harmoniously blending history, art, and nature. If you are searching for a place of discovery and inspiration, this is the place to be!

The Vatican is a unique place in the heart of Rome, not far from the Colosseum, which rivals Italy’s greatest landmarks in popularity. It is the smallest country in the world, yet its cultural and religious significance is immense. St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the main pilgrimage sites for Christians, and its history stretches back centuries.

History and Architects of the Vatican

Behind the walls of the Vatican lies a grand history, embodied in its architecture and art, created by the greatest masters of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. These visionaries transformed the Vatican into an artistic masterpiece.

Architects and Builders:

🔹 Donato Bramante (1444–1514) – designed the initial project for St. Peter’s Basilica, laying the foundation for its magnificent dome.

🔹 Raphael Santi (1483–1520) – contributed to the design of the Vatican palaces and oversaw construction after Bramante’s death.

🔹 Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475–1564) – radically revised the basilica’s design, creating one of the most iconic domes in the world.

🔹 Giacomo della Porta (1532–1602) – completed the construction of St. Peter’s dome after Michelangelo’s death.

🔹 Carlo Maderno (1556–1629) – designed and completed the basilica’s facade.

🔹 Gian Lorenzo Bernini (1598–1680) – designed the famous colonnade in St. Peter’s Square and many interior elements of the Vatican.

Great Artists and Sculptors

🎨 Michelangelo – painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel (1508–1512) and created the monumental fresco The Last Judgment (1536–1541).

🎨 Raphael – created the frescoes in the famous Raphael Rooms, including The School of Athens.

🎨 Sandro Botticelli, Pinturicchio, Ghirlandaio, and Perugino – worked on the Sistine Chapel’s wall frescoes before Michelangelo.

Major Attractions of the Vatican

🏛 St. Peter’s Basilica – the principal church of the Catholic world, built over 120 years (1506–1626). It houses relics of St. Peter, one of the twelve apostles and the first Pope.

🏛 The Sistine Chapel – the Vatican’s spiritual and artistic treasure, decorated with frescoes by the greatest Renaissance masters. It hosts papal conclaves where new Popes are elected.

🏛 The Apostolic Palace – the Pope’s official residence, featuring the Raphael Rooms and some of the richest art collections in the world.

Interesting Facts About the Vatican

🔹 The Smallest Country in the World – Vatican City covers only 0.49 km² and has a population of about 800 people.

🔹 Its Own Army – The Vatican is guarded by the Swiss Guard, a tradition dating back to 1506.

🔹 Unique Postal System – The Vatican’s postal service is considered one of the most efficient in the world, with mail often arriving faster than from Rome.

🔹 The Vatican Library – One of the oldest and most extensive libraries in the world, holding around 1.6 million books and manuscripts.

🔹 Underground Catacombs – Beneath St. Peter’s Basilica lie ancient catacombs containing the tombs of many Popes and St. Peter himself.

🔹 The Vatican Issues Its Own Currency – Though the Euro is used, the Vatican mints its own coins, which are highly prized by collectors.

Interesting Facts About the Vatican

🔸 The Vatican Secret Archives – These archives contain documents inaccessible to the public. Some speculate they hold lost gospels, secret records of religious orders, and even information about extraterrestrial life.

🔸 The Mystery of the Holy Grail – Some theories suggest that the legendary Holy Grail may be hidden within the Vatican, but its exact location remains unknown.

🔸 Secret Underground Tunnels – Rumors persist that beneath the Vatican are hidden tunnels and bunkers designed to protect the Pope in case of emergency.

Modern Life in the Vatican

Today, the Vatican is not only a spiritual center but also a fully functioning state with its own economy, press service, and even a football team. It hosts major events, including Christmas Mass and Easter services, which attract thousands of believers from around the world.

Exclusive Experiences in the Vatican

✔ Attend a Papal Audience – Every Wednesday, visitors can see the Pope in St. Peter’s Square.
✔ Climb to the Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica – Enjoy breathtaking views of Vatican City and Rome.
✔ Send a Postcard from the Vatican – The Vatican’s postal stamp makes for a unique souvenir.
✔ Buy Exclusive Vatican Coins and Stamps – Rare collectibles only available here.
✔ Explore the Vatican Gardens – A guided tour of the beautifully manicured gardens, accessible by appointment only.

How Much Time Do You Need for a Visit?

To fully experience the Vatican and see its main attractions, one day is usually enough. However, if you want to explore the museums in detail, consider allocating additional time.

Every detail in the Vatican is a masterpiece infused with centuries of history and spiritual depth. The Vatican is not just a place to visit—it is an experience to immerse yourself in.

My dream, which I had wanted to fulfill for a very long time, has finally come true, and I can now close this chapter of my life. I also plan to visit the Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids, the Statue of Liberty, the Great Wall of China, and, of course, take a drive on the Nürburgring.

On July 25, 2024, my beloved and I flew to Rome. We arrived in Italy by our BMW, driving to Milan, where we left the car and then took a flight from Milan to Rome. This was much faster since driving would have taken nearly three times as long.

Our main plan for Rome was to visit the Colosseum and the Vatican, enjoy some pizza, and explore the city’s landmarks.

Summers in Italy, especially in July, can be extremely hot, but that didn’t stop us. We purchased our tickets to the Colosseum a day in advance on the official website. Early in the morning, we took the metro to the Colosseum. Since we had booked a hotel room nearby, the journey was quick. I wouldn’t recommend driving in central Rome as parking spaces are scarce, and most are already occupied. Public transport or taxis are a much better option.

The Colosseum: A Monument of Power and History

The first thing that strikes you about the Colosseum is its sheer scale. It is not just a ruin in the center of Rome but a true symbol of the power of Ancient Rome, a living monument to ambition, engineering genius, and the bloody entertainment of the ancient world.

Its history began in 72 AD when Emperor Vespasian, aiming to gain favor with the people, ordered the construction of a grand amphitheater on the site of Emperor Nero’s former Golden House. Eight years later, in 80 AD, his son and successor, Titus, officially opened the Colosseum with a spectacular series of games that lasted for 100 days.

This magnificent amphitheater, which could accommodate up to 50,000 spectators, became the center of mass entertainment. It hosted gladiator fights, wild animal hunts, public executions, and even naval battles—although the latter were likely rare. Each level of the Colosseum reflected a strict social hierarchy: the elite sat closest to the arena, while the common people occupied the upper tiers.

However, with the fall of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum gradually lost its purpose. In the Middle Ages, it was repurposed as a fortress, a workshop, residential housing, and even a quarry—its marble and stone were used to build cathedrals and palaces. Despite damage from earthquakes and looting, the Colosseum endured and became one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.

Today, the Colosseum is more than just a tourist attraction; it is a powerful symbol of history, a reminder of both the grandeur and brutality of Ancient Rome. Millions of visitors come here each year to touch the past and feel the echoes of history still lingering within its majestic arches.

A Walk Through Time

To enter the Colosseum, we had to wait in a live queue for about 30 minutes. Once inside, the energy was overwhelming—it was as if history itself stood before our eyes, spanning thousands of years.

The Colosseum is in a somewhat ruined state, but, as far as I understand, modern sculptors do not interfere with its preservation, trying to maintain it in its most authentic form.

We spent over four hours exploring the Colosseum, taking countless photos to preserve the memories. Inside, you can also buy magnets and souvenirs, though there are cheaper options available just outside the Colosseum. Still, we decided to buy souvenirs inside to take home a piece of the energy of this place and support the official Colosseum shop.

The Colosseum is undoubtedly one of those places on Earth that must be visited at least once. It can make you rethink life, gain new insights, and find inspiration.