One of the largest collections of art, documents and historically significant objects from the Vatican ever to tour North America is coming to the Western Reserve Historical Society in Cleveland beginning May 31 for a limited, exclusive regional engagement.

Vatican Splendors from Saint Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Swiss Guard will present unique objects illustrating the Vatican's impact on history and culture through 2,000 years. The timing of the exhibition commemorates the 500th anniversary of Saint Peter's Basilica, the founding of the Vatican Museums, Michelangelo's painting of the Sistine Chapel ceiling and the establishment of the Papal Swiss Guard.

"Vatican Splendors is visiting only three U.S. cities, so we feel very fortunate to have it come here to Cleveland," said Dr. Gainor Davis, president of the Western Reserve Historical Society. "Since such a large percentage of Northeastern Ohio's population has Catholic roots, the Society felt that this exhibition meshed perfectly with its ongoing mission to educate our residents about the origins of their history, culture and traditions. People will be able to see some of the world's greatest treasures without having to travel to the Vatican."

Approximately 200 rare objects will be presented in contextual environments, such as the recreated tomb of Saint Peter. The exhibition also features actual objects relating to the election of Pope Benedict XVI, such as election ballots, patens and urns used in voting, a ceremonial vestment and an actual white smoke cartridge announcing the election.

"Indeed, this exhibition is in itself significant, as it represents one of the largest collections of art and objects from the Vatican ever to tour North America," stated Monsignor Roberto Zagnoli, curator of the Vatican Museums. "Many of these works have never before been outside Vatican City."

After the three-city tour of St. Petersburg, Fla., Cleveland and St. Paul, Minn., the items featured in Vatican Splendors will return to Rome where they cannot be absent for more than a year.

Ticket information

Tickets for Vatican Splendors from Saint Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Swiss Guard are available 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, at 10825 East Blvd. in Cleveland. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $14 for children (age 6 to 12). 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 details regarding group sales and special packages, contact Tickets for Groups at 1-800-840-1157 or visit www.ticketsforgroups.com.

Details about Vatican Splendors is available at www.vaticansplendors.com. For information about the Western Reserve Historical Society, visit www.wrhs.org.