Statue of St. Peter

Bronze Statue by Anolfo Di Cambio with a worn down foot caused by pilgrims

Dating to the 13th century, the statue depicts St. Peter holding the keys to the kingdom while also making a blessing. Tradition holds that it was sculpted by Arnolfo Di Cambio, the same artist who also as an architect designed the Duomo or Cathedral of Florence. Since its time in the Old St. Peter's Basilica, the statue bears witness to the dedication of pilgrims over the centuries. So many pilgrims have touched or kissed the foot of the statue that it has completely worn down. This tradition continues to this day.

On June 29th, the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul, you can see St. Peter dressed in ornate papal vestments and wearing a papa tiara on his head. This feast day and the statue points to St. Peter's significance as the first bishop of Rome and to whom we can trace all the popes from one conclave to another.