Look closely at this monument by Bernini. Within this sculptural ensemble, there is a throne. It is in the center and it is the Chair of Peter, which symbolizes the figure of the pope in the Church.
What few people know is that inside that seat, there is a hidden relic from the ninth century. It is the wooden chair that was once the chair of the popes.
The last time it was removed from Bernini's monument was 50 years ago. The current restoration forced it to be taken out again. It will be open to visit after the final mass of the Synod on October 27.
CARD. MAURO GAMBETTI
Archpriest of St. Peter's Basilica
At the conclusion of the celebration of the Eucharist, the ancient seat of the Chair of Peter, which was taken from the glory of Bernini and which we are investigating from the scientific point of view, to make sure that it is still clearly preserved, will be exposed to the veneration of the faithful, of those who will visit the basilica.
Pope Francis also came to the basilica to see the relic. He asked that pilgrims also be able to contemplate it.
CARD. MAURO GAMBETTI
Archpriest of St. Peter's Basilica
In past centuries, few have seen the seat of Peter. And the pope said, “Let's put it there, at the foot of the baldachin.” So we will leave it for a month and a half, more or less, until December 8, so that you can also admire the testimony of this apostolic tradition that starts from Peter and reaches today.
The chair is the seat of the bishop and, in the case of Rome, it acquires a special dimension because it represents the place where the successors of the apostle Peter exercise their authority.
TR: JD
