The Apostle Peter, Rome’s first bishop, went to Rome nearly 2,000 years ago. His death and burial on Vatican Hill led to the building there of two basilicas. Learn why the basilicas were built and how the Vatican developed into the diplomatic, spiritual, and cultural center and independent city-state it is today.

MAY 21 (FRI) Reception at the Embassy of the Holy See

His Excellency Archbishop Pietro Sambi, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, welcomes you to the beautiful Embassy of the Holy See, which was inspired by the Roman palazzos of the Renaissance. Wine and hors d’oeuvres are served and participants are welcome to bring their cameras.

MAY 22 (SAT) Seminar
9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Why a Vatican Ambassador?

Archbishop Sambi discusses his diplomatic role in the U.S. and answers questions.

10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The Apostle Peter in Rome

The archaeological evidence of Peter’s death and burial in Rome. Why and how did Constantine construct the first St. Peter’s Basilica?

11:45 to 1 p.m. The Building of the Second St. Peter’s Basilica

Why Renaissance popes wanted to tear down the original St. Peter’s. The building and decoration of the second basilica, infighting among the architects; the “escape route” to the Castel Sant'Angelo.

1 to 2 p.m. Lunch

Participants provide their own lunch.

2 to 3:15 p.m. What Is the Vatican City-State?

How did the Vatican city-state come to be in 1929, with its own railway station, post office, bank, radio station, newspaper, police department, and Swiss Guards? How does it function today?

3:30 to 4:30 p.m. The Treasures of the Vatican

The priceless art, from the Apollo of the Belvedere to Michelangelo’s Pieta. The Vatican Library and Archives.

Fr. John Vidmar, O.P., is an associate professor of theology, Providence College. Fr. Joseph Fox, O.P., is a prior at St. Dominic’s Priory, Washington, D.C., and professor and vice president for advancement at the Dominican House of Studies. In Rome, he was bureau chief of the personnel office of the Holy See.

No ticket sales at the door. Limited side-street parking available near the Embassy. Business attire.

Participants must bring a valid government-issued photo ID to the Embassy.