The new restoration brings new light to St. Peter’s Basilica during Christmas Eve Mass

Pope Francis He will celebrate VaticanTraditional Christmas midnight mass in the newly restored St. Peter’s Basilica. The restoration comes within the framework of preparations for the Jubilee Year 2025, an important event for the Catholic Church that symbolizes reconciliation and renewal. The Jubilee Year, dating back to the year 1300, is a time of pilgrimage and contemplation.

Despite its grandeur, the church was in need of restoration. One of the most important restorations is Bernini’s umbrellathe umbrella you are sitting on top of Tomb of Saint Peter.

Father Enzo Fortunato, the Vatican’s director of communications, said: “Before, I think you would have to imagine that it was very black. Now we can admire the gold.”

The Chair of St. Peter, an important symbol of papal authority, was also restored. Father Fortunato said that this chair witnessed many popes dating back to the year 875 AD.

For those who can’t visit in person, the Vatican used artificial intelligence 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.

The restoration is not limited to St. Peter’s Basilica. Other areas of RomeRome, like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, is undergoing similar cleaning efforts before the expected 35 million visitors arrive in Rome in 2025.

In St. Peter’s Basilica, Michelangelo’s Pietà is now protected behind bulletproof glass. Right next to him, Pope Francis will open the Holy Door, or Porta Santa, which symbolizes the path to salvation.

“It is a very special moment for everyone, for all of Christianity,” Fortunato said.

The Pope will open the Holy Door at 7 p.m. Rome time and then preside over the church Midnight mass In response to recent security concerns, including A Attack on a Christmas market in GermanyRome enhanced security and surveillance throughout the city.

Chris Livesay

Chris Livesay is a foreign correspondent for CBS News based in Rome.