A tourist had then urinated on the main altar, or had just begun to do so, when he was stopped by security after pulling down his pants in front of astonished pilgrims and tourists.
The Pope has expressly asked Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, the archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica, for this penitential rite of recovery and not to hesitate in its implementation. Pope Leo XIV is said to have been “appalled and deeply affected” by the sacrilegious act.
The meeting between the two clergy, Vatican sources say, was stormy. This is said to be partly because Gambetti is said to have hesitated in wanting to perform the rite. The rite, which the Pope ordained to the archpriest, is necessary, according to Roman Catholic faith, in holy places where obscene, violent or sacrilegious acts have taken place.
The main altar of St. Peter’s Basilica is very important because it is located directly above Peter’s tomb. This apostle is considered the first pope by the Roman Catholic Church. The popes are considered the successors of Peter.
Man still in Vatican Gendarmerie custody
The man had crossed the barriers around the main altar and suddenly started urinating on the altar in the presence of hundreds of outraged visitors. The man was then led away by security guards and the altar was cleaned.
The man is still in the custody of the Vatican Gendarmerie. His nationality has not been revealed so far. It is also still unclear whether he will be transferred to the Italian authorities or to another state. The motive for his striking act has not yet become known.
Previous incidents
In February, a man had climbed onto the same altar and knocked over several candlesticks. The Vatican usually does not comment on such incidents, also to avoid causing imitation. Unlike St. Peter’s Square, the Vatican is solely responsible for public safety in St. Peter’s Basilica.