Story perspectives

Vatican Boosts Security at St. Peter's Amid Vandalism

2/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Vatican is increasing security at St. Peter's Basilica to curb vandalism, while avoiding militarisation.
Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, a Vatican official, noted that over 20 million visitors came last year and incidents were limited, while calling for greater societal understanding of the causes behind vandalism.
New measures include visitor screenings and discreet security personnel.
Recent vandalism included a man urinating on the altar and damage to candelabras.

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Story summary

The Vatican is increasing security at St. Peter's Basilica to curb vandalism, while avoiding militarisation.
Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, a Vatican official, noted that over 20 million visitors came last year and incidents were limited, while calling for greater societal understanding of the causes behind vandalism.
New measures include visitor screenings and discreet security personnel.
Recent vandalism included a man urinating on the altar and damage to candelabras.