The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” -- St. Augustine

Thursday, August 5, 2021

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel -- Oak Brook

 Destination: Getting to Italy may be still less than certain right now, but to see the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, you need go no farther than an old Sears store at Oak Brook Center.

Masses are not offered at the exhibit, but you’ll have time to go at home before you leave.  

Photos: Top -- Viewers watch a video about the exhibit before looking at digital reproductions of Michelangelo’s paintings from the Sistine Chapel. The exhibit will remain at the Oak Brook Center until mid-August.

Below -- The iconic image of God and Adam from the Sistine Chapel is featured in the traveling exhibit. (Observer photos/Sharon Boehlefeld)

Why to go: If you have never been to the Vatican, this exhibit is a great substitute for seeing the Sistine Chapel in person. In fact, not having to crane your neck to stare at the ceiling many feet over your head is a plus.


The paintings, according to the exhibit website, “have been reproduced in a truly unique way using licensed high definition photos.” The images are detailed enough to allow you to see faces where Michelangelo provided them in detail, but also to see places where he left images more vague, almost as if anticipating the Impressionist movement that would follow him centuries later.

Cost: The website says adult tickets are $20; children age 4 to 12 are $16, and a family pass — two adults and two children — is $15. They are available online and at the door. 

Accessibility: The exhibit is completely accessible for those who are handicapped. There are some handicapped parking spots near the entrance.

(Grand) Kid friendly: All ages are welcome.

Info: Address —  Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel Exhibit, Oakbrook Center, 2120 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL 60523
Phone — none available
Website — https://chapelsistine.com/event-page/

— Sharon Boehlefeld compiled this story

Send Destinations ideas to seasonedobserver@rockforddiocese.org