This Friday, the Museum of the Bible will open Basilica Sancti Petri: The Transformation of Saint Peter’s Basilica, an exhibit that looks at the architecture of the Vatican’s church and examines how it has influenced the design of cathedrals around the world.
The exhibition is inspired by the book “Basilica Sancti Petri,” which was edited by Vatican Museums director Barbara Jatta. The book features prints from the Vatican collections that show the history of the construction of Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
The work of Antonio da Sangallo, Michelangelo Buonarroti, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Lievin Cruyl, Giovanni Battista Piranesi, Giuseppe Vasi, and others is featured in the book. The original prints featured in the book will be on display at the museum.
“The history of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome is, in many ways, the history of church architecture,” said Chief Curatorial Officer at the Museum of the Bible Jeffrey Kloha. “We are grateful for the partnership with the Vatican Apostolic Library. Their efforts and generosity have made it possible for people in Washington to view this history in person through these beautiful prints.”
The exhibition is in collaboration with the Vatican Apostolic Library and will run from May 27 to August 28.
Basilica Sancti Petri by the Vatican Library's Barbara Jatta served as a major inspiration for the display. The book is available for purchase through the museum.
According to the Museum of the Bible website, the museum works to educate people on the “transformative power of the Bible” through innovative and engaging methods.
St. Peter’s Basilica was completed in 1626. It is the alleged burial site of Saint Peter and the first Bishop of Rome. It is considered one of the holiest Catholic shrines and is famous as a place of pilgrimage for Christians and tourists.
Throughout the year, the pope visits and presides over liturgies within the basilica.
Photo courtesy: ©Getty Images/Alex Wong/Staff
Amanda Casanova is a writer living in Dallas, Texas. She has covered news for ChristianHeadlines.com since 2014. She has also contributed to The Houston Chronicle, U.S. News and World Report and IBelieve.com. She blogs at The Migraine Runner.
