CLEVELAND -- One of the largest collections of art, documents and historically significant objects from the Vatican is coming to Cleveland.

It is called Vatican Splendors and is from St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican museums and the Swiss Guard.

The exhibit will cover 2,000 years of history.

Hundreds of rare objects will be presented in contextual environments, such as the recreated tomb of Saint Peter. Items in the collection -- which includes tiaras; mosaics; paintings; works by well-known sculptors; papal rings and jewels; intricately embroidered silk vestments; precious objects from the Papal Mass; armor, swords and vestments of the Papal Swiss Guard; and gifts to the popes from notables such as Napoleon and the Dalai Lama -- are on loan.

Highlights of the exhibition include a reliquary containing fragments of bones of Saint Peter and a gold Votive Plaque found in the area of the tomb.

Only three cities across the country will host this exhibition.

"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."

It opens on May 31 at the Western Reserve Historical Society.

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.

Tickets for Vatican Splendors go on sale April 14 and will be 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 located at 10825 East Blvd. in Cleveland.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $14 for children (age 6-12). 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 additional information, go to the Web site.