The work "Peter's Boat" lands Oct. 10 at the Vatican Museums

A valuable artifact, known as La Barca di Pietro, was presented to Pope Francis as a gift and will be exhibited in the Vatican Museums. According to a press release from the Pope's Museums, on March 15, the Pontiff was given this handcrafted masterpiece by the Apreas, skilled shipbuilders from the Sorrento peninsula, in collaboration with the International Diplomatic Institute.

This magnificent boat is an exact replica of the ancient and original Shuttle of Peter, which was discovered in 1986 at the bottom of Lake Tiberias and is currently housed in the Yigal Allon Museum in Ginosar, Galilee. After receiving the Pope's blessing, the impressive sailboat, measuring approximately 9 meters in length and 2 meters in width, will be permanently displayed at the entrance of the Vatican Museums starting from Tuesday, Oct. 10.

It will be placed at the base of the modern helicoidal ramp, also known as the Via del Mare, which serves as a pathway for a permanent exhibition showcasing boat models from various parts of the world.

The task of installing the equipment was carried out.

With its profound symbolic and spiritual significance, Peter's Boat stands ready to receive all pilgrims and visitors embarking on their awe-inspiring voyage to the splendor of the Pope's Museums, also known as the "House of All" according to Francis. Elaborate maneuvers and installations were meticulously executed on Sunday in utmost secrecy, employing intricate acrobatic construction techniques and enlisting the expertise of specialized companies.

This remarkable feat was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Museum and Cultural Heritage Directorate and the Infrastructure and Services Directorate, both integral components of the Vatican City State Governorate.