This is a bronze statue of Saint Peter located in St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City. The statue depicts Saint Peter seated on a marble throne, holding symbolic keys in his left hand, which represent the “Keys of Heaven.” His right hand is raised in a gesture of blessing. The statue is believed to date back to the 13th century and is attributed to sculptor Arnolfo di Cambio, although its exact origins remain debated.
The statue is often referred to as “St. Peter Enthroned” and has become a significant symbol of devotion. Pilgrims typically touch or kiss the right foot of the statue, which has been worn smoothly over centuries of veneration. The intricate background features rich red and gold patterns, adding to the statue’s grandeur. The marble pedestal and the ornate surroundings emphasize its importance as a central religious icon within the Basilica.
The reference to “Jupiter” may stem from historical debates, as some critics in the past speculated that the statue might have originally represented the Roman god Jupiter before being repurposed for Christian worship. However, this theory is not widely accepted today.
