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Article posted: 11/4/2012 12:01 AM

Despite volume, no plan to limit Sistine tourists

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In this April 16, 2005, file photo, tables and chairs line the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican in preparation for the conclave. Five centuries after Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes were inaugurated at the Sistine Chapel, at least 10,000 people visit the site each day, raising concerns about temperature, dust and humidity affecting the famed art. But a Vatican Museums official said in the Vatican newspaper Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2012 that there are no plans to try to limit tourists' access.

Associated Press

Pope Benedict XVI, background left seated, leads a vesper prayer in the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican Wednesday, five centuries after Michelangelo's ceiling of frescoes was inaugurated. Benedict marked the anniversary by saying vespers beneath the frescoes, as his predecessor Juilius II had half a millennium earlier. At least 10,000 people visit the site each day, raising concerns about temperature, dust and humidity affecting the famed art. But a Vatican Museums official says there are no plans to try to limit tourists' access.

Associated Press

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Five centuries after Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes were inaugurated at the Sistine Chapel, at least 10,000 people visit the site each day, raising concerns about temperature, dust and humidity affecting the famed art.