Pope Francis will celebrate the vaticanthe traditional Christmas Eve midnight mass in the recently restored St. Peter’s Basilica. The restoration is part of preparations for the Jubilee Year 2025, an important event for the Catholic Church that symbolizes reconciliation and renewal. A Jubilee Year, which dates back to the year 1300, is a time of pilgrimage and reflection.
Despite its grandeur, the church needed restoration. One of the most significant restorations is of a canopy that sits on top the tomb of Saint Peter.
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“Before you have to imagine, I think, that it was very black. And now we can admire the gold,” said Father Enzo Fortunato, the Vatican’s communications director.
The Chair of Saint Peter, an important symbol of papal authority, has also been restored. Father Fortunato said this chair has witnessed many papacy, dating back to 875 AD.
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For those who can’t visit in person, the Vatican has used AI to create a digital replica of St. Peter’s Basilica. This allows viewers to explore every nook and cranny from the comfort of their devices.
Restoration is not limited to Sant Pere. Other areas of Romelike the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain, are undergoing similar cleaning efforts ahead of the 35 million visitors expected to come to Rome by 2025.
In Sant Pere, Michelangelo’s Pieta is now protected behind bulletproof glass. Right next to him, Pope Francis will open the Porta Santa, or Porta Santa, which symbolizes the way to salvation.
“It’s a very special moment for all of us, for all of Christianity,” Fortunato said.
The Pope will open the Holy Door at 19.00 Rome time and then lead the midnight mass In response to recent security concerns, including a Attack on the Christmas market in GermanyRome has increased security and surveillance throughout the city.
