Russell Crowe’s private tour of the Sistine Chapel mystifies Michelangelo fans

Celebrities obviously like being photographed in the Sistine Chapel in Rome—even though normal mortals are not allowed to take pictures at the hallowed Vatican Museums site. Gladiator star Russell Crowe was thrilled to take a special tour of the famous chapel, telling his fans on social media: “I’m not sure there’s a more special privilege in the world than to hold the key for the Sistine Chapel and to experience its glory in silence. So grateful. Sono al servicio di Roma [I am in the service of Rome]. His post on Twitter also took in the Colosseum, with a comment that he was showing his kids “his old office” (a reference to filming Gladiator in 2000).

Earlier this year, The Aquaman and Dune star Jason Momoa also had a lovely day at the Vatican Museums, and posted his pics on Instagram to show how much he too loved the Sistine Chapel.The Vatican’s website states meanwhile that “in the Sistine Chapel it is forbidden to take photographs or films with any type of electronic equipment”. Contributors on social media meanwhile responded to Crowe with some sparkling barbs. “I guess one of the perks of defeating the Emperor in the Colosseum, is taking photos in the Sistine Chapel,” quipped one acerbic commentator.