For the first time, AI technology used in a sacred space

Digital Twin of St. Peter’s Basilica. Photo: Screenshot from VatikanNews Channel

The Vatican has unveiled the AI-Enhanced Experience project, a "digital twin" of St. Peter's Basilica, as reported by Vatican News.

The creators of the project, a collaboration between the "Fabbrica di San Pietro" and Microsoft, aim to enable pilgrims and visitors to view even the most hidden and inaccessible corners of the Vatican basilica. It will also provide an opportunity for those unable to travel to Rome to explore the basilica remotely.

The concept of transforming St. Peter's Basilica into a "basilica that reaches out" was initiated by its archpriest, Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, president of the Fabbrica di San Pietro.

"Our efforts are focused on decoding for modern people, through digital technologies, the historical, artistic, and spiritual heritage that makes the basilica unique," Cardinal Gambetti commented.

The project took two years to complete. Initially, over the course of three weeks, drones, cameras, and lasers captured more than 400,000 images inside the basilica. These were then used to create an ultra-precise 3D model—a "digital twin."

This work also helped identify vulnerabilities in the basilica's structure, such as cracks and gaps in mosaics, enabling restoration plans for future interventions.

It has been announced that immersive visits to the basilica can be pre-booked to reduce waiting times. Visitors will also be able to experience the basilica virtually through a dedicated platform.

In addition to the AI-Enhanced Experience, two immersive exhibitions will open near St. Peter’s Basilica for the upcoming Jubilee. Both exhibitions will be permanent and available in digital and in-person formats.

As previously reported by the UOJ, Pope Francis has called for a ban on the use of artificial intelligence in warfare.

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