Never in a million years would I have thought I would be at the most important mass in the world, but here I am, having spent Easter Sunday in Vatican City at mass in front of St. Peter's Basilica. The basilica is in Vatican City which is technically its own country (even though it's kind of still in Rome). This experience was so special and unique, I will cherish it forever. St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most incredible works of architecture I have ever seen. The sheer size of the basilica alone is something I cannot process, especially being built in the early 16th century. The detail of each statue, the gigantic pillars in the front, and the Latin words wrapping around the top of the basilica are some of my favorite parts.
Over 30,000 people were in attendance this morning and flooded the famous St. Peter's Square for mass presided by Pope Francis. Let me tell you, it was surreal. The choirs sounded so beautiful, the guards were something out of a movie, and seeing the pope in real life was something I never thought I would say I did.
The guards in Vatican City are called Swiss Guards and they are responsible for the safety of the pope. Their traditional Renaissance uniforms have been worn since 1506 and if they are standing with a halberd (a combined spear and battle axe) in hand, they are on Honor Duty and are not to be approached. However, if they are standing with their hands folded in front of them casually and moving around, they are able to be approached for questions or photos. The ones closer to the altar seemed to be on Honor Duty while the ones in the crowd were talking, moving around, and answering questions.
The mass began at 9:30am and went until 11:30am. My friends and I did not have a ticket for a seat close to the front of the basilica but entry otherwise was free. There was a line we had to wait on to have our bags checked and bodies scanned. The line went fast and we got in a little after the mass started. People are not allowed to bring water bottles of any kind (even if they are reusable), portable chargers or any type of selfie stick. They are very strict, but it is understandable.
Standing in the crowd at St. Peter's Basilica for Easter Sunday Mass with the pope is definitely one of my top moments in life.
BS