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St. Peter's Basilica celebrates 400th anniversary with advanced technology and innovations for millions of pilgrims

2026-02-20 09:12:00, Kuriozitete CNA

St. Peter's Basilica celebrates 400th anniversary with advanced technology

One of the most important monuments of Christianity in the world, St. Peter's Basilica, is preparing to mark the 400th anniversary of its consecration with a package of measures that combines heritage preservation with the latest technology and improving the experience of millions of visitors.

Consecrated in 1626 after more than a century of construction, the basilica will be included in a permanent structural monitoring program.

In collaboration with the Italian energy company Eni, sensors have been installed in the foundations, dome and underground, capable of detecting even the smallest millimeter movements.

The system aims to prevent damage and ensure that the temple remains safe for centuries to come.

According to the engineer responsible for conservation, Alberto Capitanucci, the building must be treated with a multidisciplinary approach, analyzing in real time any structural or geological changes.

Spiritual and cultural program

The anniversary will culminate on November 18 with a solemn Mass presided over by Pope Leo XIV. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti has emphasized that the jubilee aims to strengthen the spiritual dimension of the pilgrimage and “renew the historical memory” of the temple.

As part of the celebrations, conferences, weekly prayers and a special itinerary in Rome entitled "Quo Vadis" will be organized.

A new documentary directed by Paula Ortiz will also be presented, where actor Chris Pratt will lead the audience through the archaeological history of the basilica and tomb of St. Peter.

Technological innovation for visitors

With around 20 million visitors a year, the Vatican will implement a real-time online reservation system, applications with mass translation in over 60 languages, and digital monitoring of the flow of people to avoid overcrowding.

Another innovation is the creation of the digital font "Michelangelus", inspired by the calligraphy of Michelangelo Buonarroti, which will be included in the basic Microsoft Office package.

The terrace opens completely.

As part of the project, the basilica's terrace area will be expanded, offering more space for relaxation and services for pilgrims. Authorities emphasize that the goal is to improve the visitor experience, without compromising the sacred character of the site.

With this ambitious plan, St. Peter's Basilica enters its fifth century as a monument monitored with advanced technology, but determined to preserve its spiritual and historical identity./ CNA