Rome’s Historic Churches Get Major Makeover with EU Pandemic Recovery Money

European Union pandemic recovery funds are driving extensive restoration work at historic religious and cultural sites throughout Rome. The famous San Pietro in Vincoli basilica, home to Michelangelo's Moses statue, is receiving a $2.3 million makeover as part of the city's ambitious cultural preservation program.

ROME (AP) — Historic treasures beyond Michelangelo’s renowned marble Moses sculpture are getting much-needed attention at Rome’s San Pietro in Vincoli basilica.

European Union pandemic recovery dollars are driving an intensive wave of restoration work at religious, cultural and historic landmarks throughout Rome.

Restorer Melanie Khanthajan scaled multiple ladders Monday, carrying her equipment to scaffolding positioned 65 feet above the basilica floor near the ceiling. With surgical precision, she used a scalpel to carefully remove plaster layers from decorative serpentine elements surrounding a coat of arms on the vaulted ceiling, employing a method known as “descialbo.”

“Every removal of a layer surprises us because it allows us to understand what it is like, what emerges,” she explained. “So for us it’s wonderful, it’s a discovery every day.”

A $2.3 million EU recovery grant is funding comprehensive cleaning and restoration of the basilica’s ceilings, altar, tombs, marble columns and ornamental features, providing work for Khanthajan and 10 additional restoration specialists.

Rome secured $579 million in European funding for “Caput Mundi” initiatives covering more than 100 cultural renovation projects citywide. Ancient Romans used “Caput Mundi” to describe their city as “the head of the world.” European Union agreements require these funds to be spent by late 2026.

Located steps from Rome’s Colosseum, the basilica derives its name “vincoli” from the Latin “vincula,” meaning chains. Ancient chains believed to have bound St. Peter in Jerusalem are displayed in a glass case at the main altar. According to religious tradition, these chains miraculously joined with those used to restrain Peter during his imprisonment at Rome’s Mamertine prison.

Built during the 5th century under Eastern Roman rule, the basilica underwent partial reconstruction in the 16th century when Pope Julius II ordered renovations. The pope added his Della Rovere family crest featuring an oak tree throughout the ceilings, arches and chapels. These heraldic symbols and accompanying decorative elements are the restoration’s primary focus.

Michelangelo’s Moses sculpture, created in 1513 for Julius’s funeral monument, remains the basilica’s star attraction. While not included in the current restoration work, the statue will receive cleaning once the project concludes.

“The works started about eight months ago and will end by May 2026,” said Ilaria Sgarbozza, the scientific director of the restoration project. “Let’s say it’s a very fast pace.”