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VATICAN MUSEUMS, THE “SECOND” PIETÀ BY MICHELANGELO

Did you know that the famous Pietà by Michelangelo is not the only one you can find in the Vatican State? While the breathtaking original is located in St. Peter’s Basilica, a fascinating, full-scale reproduction holds a unique story within the Vatican Museums.

This isn’t just any copy; it’s a “masterpiece of the cast,” created by the Vatican’s own Marble Restoration Laboratory in 1975 for the “The Holy See: Vatican Collections” exhibition. More than just an exhibit, its creation served a vital purpose: to allow restorers to study the sculpture in detail, ensuring they could plan and test their work before ever touching the original.

Its very existence is a testament to history. This replica was crucial in the aftermath of the tragic 1972 act of vandalism against the original. Having a perfect, life-sized cast was essential for the delicate and complex restoration process that followed.
This stunning reproduction is a tribute to Michelangelo’s genius, but it’s also an homage to the science and artistry of restoration itself, showcasing the incredible skill of the Vatican’s artisans. It’s a true hidden gem, representing both a work of art and a piece of history.

Fun fact: The original Pietà is the only work Michelangelo ever signed. He did so after hearing that some people attributed it to another sculptor. In 1964, the sculpture was sent to New York for the World’s Fair, the only time it has ever left Rome. After this journey, the Vatican declared the sculpture to be immovable.
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