How many popes are buried under St Peter’s Basilica?

How many popes are buried under St. Peter’s Basilica?

St. Peter’s Basilica, located in the Vatican City, is one of the most significant and grandiose religious structures in the world. It is not only an architectural masterpiece but also holds a significant historical and spiritual value for the Catholic Church. Within its hallowed halls, several popes have found their final resting place. So, how many popes are actually buried under St. Peter’s Basilica?

The answer to this question is not as straightforward as one might expect. The exact number of popes interred at the Basilica is a subject of debate and uncertainty. Officially, there are 148 tombs within St. Peter’s Basilica, which includes the burial sites of various popes, as well as prominent religious figures and saints. However, not all of these tombs contain the remains of popes.

The majority of the popes who are buried within St. Peter’s Basilica lie in the papal crypt, situated beneath the main altar. This crypt holds the remains of numerous popes, including some of the most revered figures in Catholic history. It is believed that at least 91 popes have been laid to rest in this sacred space throughout the centuries.

How are the popes buried in St. Peter’s Basilica?

The burial process for popes in St. Peter’s Basilica has evolved over time. In the early years, popes were buried in various locations depending on the historical context and prevailing traditions. However, since the construction of the current basilica, the practice of burying popes in the papal crypt has become the norm.

When a pope passes away, his body is prepared for burial according to the customs and rituals of the Catholic Church. The deceased pope’s body is typically embalmed and dressed in papal vestments. It is then laid in state for a period of public mourning, allowing the faithful to pay their respects.

Following the public viewing, the pope’s body is transferred to the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, where it lies in repose in the Sala Clementina. During this time, a funeral mass is celebrated, commemorating the life and achievements of the deceased pontiff. After the funeral rites, the pope’s body is carried in a solemn procession to St. Peter’s Basilica for interment in the papal crypt.

FAQs about the popes buried in St. Peter’s Basilica:

1. Are all popes buried in St. Peter’s Basilica?

No, not all popes are buried in St. Peter’s Basilica. While it is a prestigious honor for a pope to be laid to rest in the Vatican City, some popes have chosen to be buried in other locations or have alternative burial arrangements.

2. Which popes are buried in St. Peter’s Basilica?

Notable popes buried in St. Peter’s Basilica include Pope Paul VI, Pope John XXIII, Pope Innocent XI, Pope Pius XI, and Pope Urban VIII, amongst others. Many of these pontiffs made significant contributions to the Catholic Church and left a lasting impact on its history.

3. How are the tombs of popes identified within St. Peter’s Basilica?

The tombs of popes within St. Peter’s Basilica are marked with elaborate monuments, plaques, or inscriptions that bear their names and significant details of their papacy. These markers serve as a testament to their legacy and provide a means for visitors to pay their respects.

4. Are all the popes buried in the papal crypt?

No, while the majority of popes are indeed buried in the papal crypt beneath the main altar of St. Peter’s Basilica, some have chosen alternative burial sites within the Basilica complex. For example, Pope John Paul II is buried in the Chapel of St. Sebastian, located within the Basilica.

5. Are there any women buried in St. Peter’s Basilica?

As per tradition and historical practice, women are not buried in St. Peter’s Basilica. The interment within the Basilica has been strictly reserved for popes, saints, and prominent religious figures of male gender.

6. Are there any empty tombs in St. Peter’s Basilica?

Yes, there are several empty tombs within St. Peter’s Basilica. These tombs have been prepared in advance to accommodate future popes, thereby ensuring that the tradition of burying popes within the Basilica can continue.

7. Can visitors access the papal crypt in St. Peter’s Basilica?

No, the papal crypt is generally not accessible to the general public. It is located below the main floor of the Basilica, reserved for private religious ceremonies and the final resting place of popes. However, certain special occasions may allow limited access to the crypt for specific individuals or groups.

8. Are there any restrictions on photography or filming within St. Peter’s Basilica?

Yes, there are certain restrictions on photography and filming within St. Peter’s Basilica. While visitors are usually allowed to take photographs for personal use, there are limitations on using flash photography or tripods. Additionally, some areas, such as the Sistine Chapel, may have specific photography restrictions due to their delicate artistic preservation.

9. Can you visit the tomb of a specific pope in St. Peter’s Basilica?

In general, the tombs of individual popes within St. Peter’s Basilica cannot be visited separately as they are all located within the designated papal crypt. However, visitors can pay their respects to the collective resting place of the popes by entering the basilica and participating in religious services or guided tours.

10. Are there any plans to relocate the tombs of popes within St. Peter’s Basilica?

There are no current plans to relocate the tombs of popes within St. Peter’s Basilica. The Basilica serves as a historical and religious landmark, housing the legacy of centuries of papal history. Any future changes or relocations concerning the tombs would require careful consideration and consultation within the Catholic Church.

11. Is it possible to attend a papal funeral in St. Peter’s Basilica?

Attending a papal funeral in St. Peter’s Basilica is generally restricted to ordained members of the Catholic Church, dignitaries, and specific invited guests. The funerals are major events marked by strict protocol and security measures due to the high profile of the individuals involved.

12. Are there any plans for future expansions or additions to St. Peter’s Basilica?

While there have been proposals and discussions regarding potential expansions or additions to St. Peter’s Basilica, there are no confirmed plans for significant architectural changes at present. Any modifications to the Basilica would require careful planning and adherence to the historical and cultural significance of the structure.