By Fabio Colagrande and Linda Bordoni A new project, “St. Peter’s Basilica: AI-Enhanced Experience, ” was introduced on Monday, involving a collaboration between the Church and tech companies Microsoft and Iconem, a heritage digitalization firm, as they gear up for the Jubilee in 2025. During a press conference, it was revealed that this AI-powered replica of St. Peter’s Basilica enables immersive virtual tours and detailed digital exhibits, thus highlighting the splendor of this Renaissance masterpiece. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, Archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica, enthusiastically likened the experience to observing a "starry sky on a summer night, " emphasizing how the innovative tools resemble a telescope or spaceship for enhanced viewing. Merging tradition with modernity The collaboration between the Vatican and Microsoft is significant due to its ambitious and innovative use of technology to enhance faith and heritage, as Microsoft President Brad Smith noted during the conference. In a conversation with Vatican News’ Fabio Colagrande, Smith discussed technology’s unique ability to connect past and present. “I believe it enriches the spiritual journey of pilgrims visiting Rome, ” he said, sharing that experiencing it personally deepened his understanding of Saint Peter's legacy.

"It breathes life into history. " Smith highlighted that the virtual experience offers fresh insights, enabling viewers to explore hidden parts of the Basilica and, through digital exhibitions, access typically inaccessible spaces like the Roman tombs below and the detailed art in the high dome. Improved access to spiritual heritage While presenting the initiative, Smith detailed that the virtual replica was made using the latest drone, camera, and laser scanning technology, which captured every detail of the Basilica, then assembled using advanced AI algorithms. This format is designed to engage a new generation with the Basilica’s beauty. “We're bringing St. Peter's to the world and to a new audience, in a language fit for today’s era, ” said Smith, noting that this accessibility offers spiritual, cultural, and historical significance globally, even to those unable to visit Rome physically. Fostering shared values Smith also emphasized the project’s importance as an example of what can be achieved when facing a common challenge from varied perspectives and expertise. Reflecting on the convergence of a historic institution like the Vatican with a modern tech firm, he observed, “This illustrates what people can achieve when they leverage each other's strengths and elevate one another. ” He expressed hope that this would spark contemplation on the power of collaboration, particularly when deeper understanding across differences is needed. Faith and technology Smith acknowledged that the project showcases the Vatican’s openness to adopting new technology for advancing faith and sharing treasures in unprecedented ways. Addressing concerns about potential conflicts between technologies like AI and faith, he noted that, often, new technology is seen as at odds with religion. However, this project demonstrates resolution of such tensions by allowing people to achieve more than they might have imagined.