Rare darkened St. Peter's Dome greets Romans overnight

(Vatican Radio) A darkened St. Peter’s dome gave tourists and journalists a rare image on Wednesday night and Thursday morning: The famed Bernini colonnade shining brightly on its own, while the usually imposing Cupola was obscured in the background.

The unusual sight was not due to technical problems or security concerns, but was part of a test ahead of a light show – called “Fiat Lux” – being organized for the Jubilee of Mercy.

“The ACEA [power company] is preparing LED lighting for both the Cupola and the Via della Conciliazione [which leads to the Vatican] and are testing everything to make sure it is ready on 7 December, the eve of the Jubilee,” said Father Ciro Benedettini, the Vice-Director of the Vatican Press Office.