‘Digital twin’ of St Peter’s Basilica to allow virtual visits

“It is literally one of the most technologically advanced and sophisticated projects of its kind that has ever been pursued"

The scheme will allow the Vatican to monitor visitor flows. Picture: AP

The Vatican and Microsoft have unveiled a digital twin of St Peter’s Basilica that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to explore one of the world’s most important monuments – while also helping the Holy See manage visitor flows and identify conservation problems.

Using 400,000 high-resolution digital photographs, taken with drones, cameras and lasers over four weeks when no one was in the basilica, the digital replica is going online alongside two new on-site exhibits to provide visitors with an interactive experience.