Vatican's AI Revolution: Virtual Access to St. Peter's Treasures

The Vatican has introduced AI-enabled services for St Peter's Basilica, offering virtual access to its treasures and enhanced visitor experiences. In collaboration with Microsoft and Iconem, the Vatican launched digital offerings ahead of the Holy Year 2025, utilizing advanced technology for preservation and accessibility.

The Vatican has unveiled a new suite of Artificial Intelligence-driven services designed to enhance visitor experiences at St Peter's Basilica. Enabled by a collaboration with technology firm Microsoft and Iconem, the initiative grants worldwide virtual access to the basilica's Renaissance-era architectural marvels.

Timed to coincide with the Catholic Church's Holy Year celebrations in 2025, the pioneering project includes an interactive website, a digital twin of the basilica, and two AI-enhanced exhibitions. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti highlighted the transformative potential of these tools, likening them to 'a telescope or spaceship' that reveals the basilica's full splendor.

Employing drones, cameras, and lasers, a 3D model of St. Peter's was meticulously scanned, capturing over 400,000 photographs during four weeks of nocturnal flights. The digital twin promises to be an invaluable resource for future preservation efforts. Microsoft President Brad Smith emphasized that this initiative reaches new global audiences in an era of digital transformation.

(With inputs from agencies.)