Pope Francis celebrates the Vatican’s traditional Christmas Eve midnight mass in the newly restored St. Peter’s Basilica. The restoration is part of preparations for the 2025 Jubilee Year, an important event for the Catholic Church that symbolizes reconciliation and renewal. The Jubilee Year, which dates back to 1300, is a time of pilgrimage and reflection.
Despite its grandeur, the church was in need of restoration. One of the most important repairs is Bernini canopythe canopy above it Tomb of Saint Peter.
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“Imagine, it was so black before, and now we can admire gold,” said Father Enzo Fortunato, the Vatican’s head of communications.
The chair of St. Peter, an important symbol of papal authority, has also been restored. Father Fortunato said the chair dates back to 875 AD and has been a witness to many popes.
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For those unable to visit in person, the Vatican 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 St. Peter’s Basilica. Similar clean-up efforts are underway in other parts of Rome, including the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain, ahead of the 35 million tourists expected to visit the city in 2025.
In St. Peter’s Basilica, Michelangelo’s Pietà is now protected by bulletproof glass. Right next to it, Pope Francis opens the Holy Door, or Porta Santa, symbolizing the path to salvation.
“This is a really special moment for everyone and for all Christians,” Fortunato said.
The Pope will open the Holy Door at 7pm Roman time and then lead the way. Midnight mass. In response to recent security concerns, German Christmas market attackRome has increased security and surveillance throughout the city.
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