February 9th 2025.
The peaceful atmosphere of St Peter's Basilica was abruptly interrupted when a man unexpectedly climbed onto the high altar. Visitors, who had come to celebrate the Jubilee year, were shocked and bewildered as they watched the masked vandal wreak havoc. With no regard for the sanctity of the place, the man began to desecrate the altar by violently ripping off its cloth covering. He then proceeded to kick down six antique candle holders, each worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Footage shared on social media captured the man's reckless behavior as he strode back and forth on the altar, lashing out at anything in his path. As he attempted to sweep the cloth off the altar, five security guards dressed in black quickly intervened. They subdued him behind the altar before he could cause further damage. According to Italian news agency ANSA, the incident occurred yesterday morning on the central altar of the Confessio.
The altar in question is one of the most revered symbols in the Catholic religion and is usually roped off from ordinary visitors. However, the man, later identified as a Romanian citizen, managed to gain access and carry out his destructive act. He was subsequently detained and questioned by the Vatican Gendarmerie and Vatican Inspectorate. Matteo Bruni, director of the Vatican Press Room, stated that the man had severe mental disabilities and was handed over to Italian authorities.
Spanish newspaper ABC reported that security swiftly intervened after an automatic alarm sounded when the man put his feet on the altar. This incident highlights the heightened security measures in place at the basilica due to the ongoing Jubilee year. During this special time, sacred portals are opened and pilgrims are encouraged to visit and pass through the holy doors, one of which is located in the basilica.
The concept of the Jubilee year dates back to the Old Testament and signifies a period of time when sinners can seek forgiveness for their wrongdoings. Currently, we are in the midst of one such period, which will last until January next year. ABC also reported that the metre-high bronze candelabra, which were damaged by the vandal, were recovered and placed back in their rightful place after being checked. Despite the disturbing incident, the sanctity of St Peter's Basilica remains intact, and visitors can continue to experience its beauty and spiritual significance.
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