Vatican and Microsoft Unveil 3D Basillica Twin

The Vatican and Microsoft have collaborated to create a highly advanced 3D digital model of St. Peter’s Basilica using AI and over 400,000 high-resolution images captured by drones and lasers. This 'digital twin' allows global virtual access to the basilica, providing an immersive experience of its history and architecture, and aids in conservation by identifying structural vulnerabilities invisible to the naked eye. The initiative, launched in anticipation of the 2025 Jubilee, aims to accommodate the millions of pilgrims expected to visit and includes an educational Minecraft game and an in-person exhibition. Microsoft President Brad Smith described the project as one of the most sophisticated of its kind, highlighting its role in preserving cultural heritage and enhancing accessibility. Pope Francis has praised the project for its potential to spread faith and preserve a piece of world patrimony. The digital platform also helps manage visitor flow and structural conservation efforts, ensuring the basilica's preservation for future generations.