Bernini Baldacchino
Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s Baldacchino is a monumental piece in St. Peter’s Basilica.
What is a Baldachin? It is a ceremonial canopy of stone, metal, or fabric over an altar, throne, or doorway.
Bernini’s Baldacchino, also called the Baldacchino di San Pietro, is a big bronze canopy with sculptures.
It’s right above the main altar in St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, Rome.
It was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and commissioned by Pope Urban VIII in 1624.
The canopy is 95 feet tall and is considered one of Bernini’s masterpieces.
The Baldacchino is above St. Peter’s tomb, who was the first Pope and follower of Jesus. It’s seen as one of the most sacred places in all of Christianity.
The cover is golden bronze and sits on four stands. These stands have designs with symbols related to the Barberini family, which Pope Urban VIII was a part of.
The Baldacchino took nine years to complete, from 1624 to 1633, and is a testament to Bernini’s skill.
Since there are so many historical elements inside St. Peter’s Basilica we recommend booking a guided tour to get the best experience. Book in advance to save your spot.
Baldacchino Bernini History
It consists of four twisted columns, each over 60 feet tall, that support a canopy adorned with cherubs and other decorative elements.
Temple of Jerusalem’s columns inspired Baldacchino’s columns.
As per history, they were brought to Rome by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century.
It required casting more than 300 tons of bronze, which came from melting down the bronze doors of the ancient Roman Pantheon.
The Baldacchino features a wealth of sculptural detail, including cherubs, angels, and other ornamental elements intricately made from bronze.
The Baldacchino is one of Bernini’s most significant works and a masterpiece of Baroque art.
In addition to its artistic and historical significance, the Baldacchino also has a practical function.
It serves as a canopy over the altar, protecting it from the elements and providing a sense of intimacy and sanctity for the celebration of Mass.
Learn more about this masterpiece with a guided tour when you visit.
What inspired the spiral-turned columns of Bernini’s Baladacchino?
Bernini got the idea for the twisty columns in his Baldacchino from some old marble columns in the previous St. Peter’s.
Some people believe these columns were brought by Constantine the Great from the Temple of Solomon.
These columns were believed to have been used in the original basilica. They were later incorporated into the design of the Baldacchino.
Using these columns in the Baldacchino was a nod to the history and tradition of St. Peter’s Basilica and a way to connect the new structure to the ancient past of the site.
Featured Image: Wikimedia.org