Are the popes buried in St. Peter's Basilica?

St. Peter's Basilica is the final resting place for a significant number of popes.  While the exact number can vary depending on how you define "buried," estimates suggest that around 91 popes lie beneath the basilica.

​

Here's a deeper dive into the fascinating story of the papal tombs. 

Early Burials and the Old St. Peter's: The tradition of burying popes near St. Peter's tomb dates back to the early centuries of the Church. The original St. Peter's Basilica, constructed in the 4th century, housed the tombs of many popes, particularly those from the 5th to the 16th centuries. These tombs were often elaborate artistic creations, reflecting the status and legacy of the deceased popes.

​

Shifting Landscape

The New St. Peter's and the Papal Crypts: During the 16th and 17th centuries, the old basilica underwent a major reconstruction, resulting in the creation of the current St. Peter's Basilica. Unfortunately, this process led to the destruction of most of the earlier papal tombs. However, the new basilica incorporated dedicated spaces for papal burials – the papal crypts, located beneath the main floor.

​

Modern Practices

Since the construction of the new basilica, popes have primarily been entombed in the papal crypts. These crypts hold the remains of popes from the 16th century onwards, including the beloved John Paul II, who was laid to rest there in 2005. Some popes, however, have chosen alternative burial sites, like Pope John XXIII, whose body lies within St. Peter's Basilica itself.

​

The Intricacy of Numbers

While the estimate of 91 popes buried in St. Peter's Basilica is widely accepted, arriving at a precise number can be challenging. Here's why:

Early records about papal burials, especially from the first centuries AD, are scarce or unreliable. This makes it difficult to definitively determine the exact number of popes initially interred near St. Peter's tomb.

The Fate of Early Tombs: As mentioned earlier, the construction of the new St. Peter's Basilica resulted in the destruction of most of the earlier papal tombs. The fragmentary remains recovered during this process may not always represent complete burials.

Distinguishing Reburials: Some popes' remains were relocated over the centuries. Determining whether a specific burial site represents the final resting place or a previous location can be complex.

 

The papal tombs at St. Peter's Basilica hold immense historical and artistic value.  They serve as a testament to the long and rich history of the papacy.  The artistic styles of the tombs, from the elaborate sculptures of the Renaissance to the simpler sarcophagi of the modern era, reflect changing artistic trends and papal tastes.  Furthermore, studying these tombs can provide valuable insights into the lives and legacies of the popes themselves.

 

Exploring the Papal Crypts:

While public access to the papal crypts is generally restricted, visitors to St. Peter's Basilica can still encounter traces of the papal tombs.  Several popes are commemorated by elaborate funerary monuments within the basilica itself.  These monuments, often featuring sculptures, portraits, and inscriptions, offer a glimpse into the lives and legacies of these past leaders of the Catholic Church.

​

Are there any paintings in St. Peter's Basilica?

Contrary to popular belief, St. Peter's Basilica boasts not only awe-inspiring mosaics but also a single, noteworthy painting. Here's a deeper dive into the artistic adornments that grace this magnificent church:

​

The Reign of Mosaics: A Tradition Steeped in History

St. Peter's Basilica is indeed primarily adorned with mosaics, a dazzling art form with a long and rich history within the Catholic Church. Mosaics, meticulously crafted from tiny pieces of colored glass, ceramic, or even precious stones, create stunning and durable images.

​

The use of mosaics in St. Peter's Basilica reflects a long-standing tradition in Christian art. Early Christian basilicas often employed mosaics to depict religious scenes and figures, as they were well-suited to adorning large surfaces and withstanding the test of time. This tradition continued throughout the Byzantine Empire, which was renowned for its exquisite mosaic craftsmanship and undoubtedly influenced the artistic choices made during St. Peter's construction.

​

The Beauty and Significance of Mosaics in St. Peter's

The mosaics within St. Peter's Basilica are not merely decorative elements; they serve a vital purpose.  These mosaics depict a vast array of biblical scenes, theological concepts, and figures from Christian history.  They act as a visual narrative, guiding viewers through stories from the Old and New Testaments and showcasing the lives and teachings of saints and popes.

​

Some of the most famous mosaics in St. Peter's Basilica include:

The Nave Mosaics: These depict scenes from the lives of St. Peter and St. Paul, the two apostles upon whom the Church is traditionally said to be built.
The Dome Mosaics: These grand mosaics adorn the interior of the dome and depict scenes related to the Holy Spirit and the Apocalypse.
The Apse Mosaic: This monumental mosaic located behind the main altar depicts Christ enthroned in glory.
The artistry of the mosaics in St. Peter's Basilica is truly remarkable. The meticulous detail, vibrant colors, and masterful use of light and shadow create a sense of awe and wonder.  These mosaics have stood the test of time, continuing to inspire and educate viewers for centuries.

​

The Solitary Painting: A Hidden Gem

While mosaics reign supreme in St. Peter's Basilica, there is a single, noteworthy painting tucked away within the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament. This painting, titled "The Holy Trinity" by Pietro da Cortona (1596-1669), is a masterpiece of the Baroque era. The painting depicts God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in a dynamic composition filled with light and movement.

​

It's interesting to consider why this single painting resides amongst a sea of mosaics.  Perhaps it was a stylistic choice, with mosaics deemed more appropriate for the vast expanses of the basilica walls, while a painting was preferred for the more intimate space of the chapel.  Alternatively, the painting's creation may have coincided with a period when the use of mosaics was less prevalent.

​

The Power of Artistic Harmony

Regardless of the reason for the single painting, its presence within St. Peter's Basilica does not diminish the impact of the mosaics.  In fact, the two artistic forms create a harmonious whole.  The vast scale and permanence of the mosaics perfectly complement the grandeur of the architecture, while the single painting adds a touch of intimacy and artistic variation within the larger space.

​

What is "Porta Santa"?

These special doors are typically located within the walls of the four major papal basilicas in Rome:

St. Peter's Basilica
St. John Lateran (the Cathedral of Rome)
Santa Maria Maggiore
St. Paul Outside the Walls
The doors can vary in design and materials, but they are often adorned with religious symbols and inscriptions. During most years, the Holy Doors are sealed with mortar and brick. This signifies a separation between the ordinary world and the special graces associated with a Holy Year.

​

Significance of the Holy Doors

Holy Years (Jubilee Years):  The Holy Doors are opened only during these special years designated by the Pope. These years typically occur every 25 years, though extraordinary Holy Years can be declared at other times.

Symbolism:  The opening of the Holy Door signifies a time of renewal, forgiveness, and special graces for pilgrims. It's seen as a symbolic entrance to a period of spiritual reflection and reconciliation.

Plenary Indulgence:  Catholic tradition associates entering a Holy Door during a Holy Year with the possibility of receiving a plenary indulgence.  This refers to a remission of the temporal punishment due to sin, allowing for a deeper spiritual renewal.

The Ritual of Opening:

Solemn Ceremony: When a Holy Year begins, the Pope presides over a ceremony to open the Holy Door.  This ceremony often involves prayers, hymns, and symbolic gestures with a hammer to break the seal.

Open Throughout the Year:  Once opened, the Holy Door remains accessible to pilgrims for the entire duration of the Holy Year. After the year concludes, the door is resealed with another ceremony.

The Tradition's History:

The tradition of Holy Doors and Holy Years dates back to the 14th century. It's believed to have originated from the idea of offering pilgrims a similar experience to visiting Jerusalem, which was difficult for many Europeans during the Middle Ages.

​

What and when is a "Holy Year"?

A Holy Year, also known as a Jubilee Year, is a special year of celebration and renewal within the Catholic Church. Traditionally, during a Holy Year, Catholics have the opportunity to receive a plenary indulgence. This signifies the remission of both the temporal punishment due to sin (after the guilt of the sin has already been forgiven through confession) and the opening of a path for deeper spiritual renewal. The Holy Year serves as a designated period for Catholics to focus on strengthening their faith, seeking forgiveness, and fostering reconciliation with God and others.  It's a time for reflection, prayer, and acts of charity.

​

Pilgrimage and Special Events:  Holy Years often witness an increase in pilgrimages to Rome and other holy sites. Special events and celebrations might be organized within churches to mark the occasion.

​

Typically, Holy Years occur every 25 years, following a regular cycle. These are known as ordinary Holy Years.
The Pope can also proclaim extraordinary Holy Years outside the regular cycle for specific reasons or events.
Last Holy Year: The most recent Holy Year was 2015-2016, which Pope Francis declared a Jubilee Year of Mercy.

​

The tradition of Holy Years dates back to the 14th century. It's believed to have originated from the idea of offering pilgrims a similar experience to visiting Jerusalem, which was difficult for many Europeans during the Middle Ages. Holy Years provided an opportunity for spiritual renewal closer to home.

Significance of the Name "Jubilee":

​

The term "Jubilee" has roots in the Old Testament, referring to the year of jubilee celebrated by the Israelites every 50 years. This year was a time of social and economic restoration, with the release of slaves and the return of land to its rightful owners.  The Catholic Church adopted the term "Jubilee" to signify a similar period of spiritual restoration and renewal.

​

What is Bernini Baldachin?

The Bernini Baldachin, also known as the Papal Baldachin or Altare Papale (High Altar), is a monumental bronze sculpted canopy that stands majestically over the Papal Altar in St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City. Designed by the renowned Italian artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini, it's a masterpiece of Baroque art and architecture and a significant element within the basilica.

​

The primary function of the Baldachin is to mark and glorify the Papal Altar's location directly above St. Peter's tomb. This positioning highlights the immense significance of the altar and the sacred ground beneath it. The Baldachin's grandeur and scale visually emphasize the authority of the Pope as the head of the Catholic Church.

 

The Baldachin exemplifies the Baroque artistic style, characterized by drama, movement, and theatricality. Its soaring columns, flowing curves, and rich ornamentation create a sense of awe and wonder.
Four Helical Columns: The Baldachin rests upon four massive, twisted bronze columns adorned with floral and vine motifs symbolizing life and growth. These columns are a hallmark of Baldachin's design.

Statues and Decorations: Four large bronze angels stand at the corners of Baldachin's canopy, adding dynamism and celestial presence. The canopy itself features intricate decorative elements, including festoons, swags, and papal symbols.
Construction Period: The Baldachin took Bernini nine years to complete, from 1624 to 1633. It's a testament to his artistic vision, engineering skill, and the dedication involved in its creation.

A Focal Point in St. Peter's Basilica:

The Bernini Baldachin stands as a focal point within St. Peter's Basilica, drawing visitors' eyes upwards and towards the Papal Altar. It is not only a magnificent work of art but also a powerful symbol of faith and papal authority.

​

What is a Swiss Guard?

The Swiss Guard, formally known as the Pontifical Swiss Guard, stands as one of the most intriguing and visually striking units in the world, dedicated to the protection of the Pope and the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican City. This small force is renowned not just for its distinctive Renaissance-era uniforms but also for its rich history that intertwines deeply with the Vatican's past and the broader narrative of European military traditions. Here, we delve into the origins, evolution, and present-day role of the Swiss Guard, which continues to captivate the imagination of people around the globe.

The Swiss Guard's foundation dates back to the late 15th and early 16th centuries, a period when Swiss mercenaries were highly sought after by European monarchs and popes due to their reputation for bravery, loyalty, and martial prowess. The official date marking the establishment of the Guard is January 22, 1506, when Pope Julius II enlisted a group of 150 Swiss soldiers to serve as his personal bodyguards. This decision was influenced by the Swiss mercenaries' formidable performance in the battles of the Italian Wars, which highlighted their military competence.

The Swiss Guard's legendary loyalty was tragically underscored during the Sack of Rome in 1527, when troops of the Holy Roman Empire invaded the Vatican. In a heroic last stand, a small contingent of the Guard held off the invaders long enough for Pope Clement VII to escape to the safety of Castel Sant'Angelo. Out of 189 guardsmen, 147 were killed in this battle, a sacrifice that cemented the Swiss Guard's reputation and ensured their continued presence in the Vatican.

Over the centuries, the role of the Swiss Guard has evolved. Initially intended as a combat force to protect the Pope and defend the Papal States, its function has transitioned in the modern era to primarily focus on ceremonial duties, security services, and the personal safety of the Pope. Despite this shift, members of the Swiss Guard are trained in both traditional combat and modern security techniques, ensuring they are prepared for any situation.

Today, the Swiss Guard is comprised of approximately 135 officers and men. To be eligible for service, recruits must be Swiss Catholic males between the ages of 19 and 30, have completed basic training in the Swiss military, and stand at least 174 cm (5 ft 8.5 in) tall. They must also commit to serving for at least two years. This rigorous selection process ensures that only the most dedicated and qualified individuals join the ranks of the Guard.

Perhaps the most visually distinctive aspect of the Swiss Guard is their unique uniforms. Contrary to popular belief, these flamboyant, multi-colored uniforms were not designed by Michelangelo but are instead a relatively modern creation from the early 20th century, inspired by Renaissance-era clothing. The guards' attire during ceremonial occasions, featuring vibrant blues, reds, and yellows, along with their halberds and helmets, make them one of the most recognizable military units in the world.

​

In the present day, the Swiss Guard continues to uphold its traditional role while adapting to contemporary security challenges. Beyond their ceremonial duties, guardsmen undergo rigorous training in personal protection, crowd control, and even cybersecurity, ensuring the Pope's safety in an increasingly complex global environment.

​

The Swiss Guard not only serves as a symbol of the Vatican's rich history and traditions but also as a vivid reminder of the enduring values of loyalty, sacrifice, and dedication. As they march through the centuries, the Guard remains a fascinating blend of historical legacy and modern-day relevance, embodying the spirit of service and protection at the heart of the Vatican.