Microsoft and Vatican Launch Digital Replica of St. Peter's Basilica

The Vatican and Microsoft have launched a groundbreaking initiative to create a digital twin of St. Peter’s Basilica, utilizing AI and 400,000 high-resolution images captured by drones and other technologies. This project aims to enhance the visitor experience and provide immersive virtual tours ahead of the 2025 Jubilee, when millions of pilgrims are expected. The digital replica not only showcases the Basilica's architectural beauty but also identifies structural vulnerabilities, aiding in conservation efforts. Microsoft President Brad Smith described the project as one of the most advanced of its kind, with Cardinal Mauro Gambetti emphasizing its role in merging history, art, and spirituality. An interactive website and physical exhibitions will allow users to explore previously inaccessible areas of the Basilica, making its legacy more accessible to a global audience. The initiative represents a significant convergence of technology and heritage, aiming to enrich the spiritual journey of its visitors.