A new restoration brings new light to St. Peter's Basilica for Christmas Eve Mass

Pope Francis will celebrate the Vatican's traditional midnight Christmas Eve Mass in St. Peter's Basilica recently restored. The restoration is part of preparations for the Jubilee Year 2025, an important event of the Catholic Church that is a symbol of reconciliation and renewal. The Year of Jubilee, which dates back to 1300, is a time of pilgrimage and reflection.

Despite its size, the church needed renovation. One of the most important restorations is this Bernini's Baldachina canopy that sits high the tomb of St.

“Before that, you have to think, I think, it was very dark. And now we can admire the gold,” said Father Enzo Fortunato, director of communications of the Vatican.

Also returned by the Chairman of St. Peter, an important symbol of the Pope's authority. Father Fortunato said this seat has seen many popes, starting in 875 AD.

For those who can't visit in person, the Vatican has 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. Other Roman sites, such as the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain, are making similar efforts to clean up ahead of the expected 35 million visitors to Rome by 2025.

In St. Peter's, Michelangelo's Pietà is now protected by bulletproof glass. Right next to it, Pope Francis will open the holy door, or Porta Santa, symbolizing the way to salvation.

“It's a really special time for all of us, for all of Christianity,” Fortunato said.

The Pope will open the Holy Door at 7pm Roman time and lead Midnight Mass. Responding to recent security concerns, including a Christmas market attack in GermanyRome has increased security and surveillance throughout the city.