ROME: A man vandalized St. Peter’s Basilica’s main altar by knocking over valuable candelabra. Security intervened quickly, preventing further damage.
The altar, used for major liturgical events, sits beneath Bernini’s historic stone canopy. The incident shocked many tourists inside the basilica.
The suspect removed the altar cloth before being stopped. Authorities say the damage includes 19th-century candelabra worth thousands of dollars.
Suspect Details
The suspect is Romanian and reportedly has a serious mental disability, Vatican officials stated. Police detained him immediately.
Italian authorities now have custody of the man following Vatican police intervention. Officials are assessing the total extent of damage.
Italian news agency Ansa reported that the damaged candelabra are valued at approximately €30,000 ($31,000).
Security Concerns
The basilica has increased security in preparation for the 2025 Catholic Church jubilee. Millions of pilgrims are expected to visit Rome.
To enhance protection, the basilica installed new glass in front of Michelangelo’s Pieta sculpture. It had been attacked in 1972.
This is not the first incident at the altar. In 2019, another man threw candelabra from the same location.
Security measures will likely be re-evaluated after this latest act of vandalism.
Tourist Reactions
Visitors inside the basilica were shocked by the unexpected event. Some managed to capture the scene on video.
Footage shared online shows the man climbing onto the altar before being restrained by security.
Tourists expressed concern over how such an act could occur at such a historic religious site.
Many have called for stricter security to prevent future incidents.
Church Preparations
Church officials are working to restore the altar and assess the damage. Cleanup efforts began immediately after the incident.
Despite the disruption, services at St. Peter’s Basilica continued as scheduled.
The Catholic Church’s jubilee events remain a priority, with large crowds expected next year.
Authorities are urging increased vigilance to protect the basilica’s sacred artifacts.
