The grand cathedrals and basilicas found throughout the Catholic world are unique treasures of the Church. Nothing can match St. Peter’s Basilica or Notre Dame Cathedral for the sheer grandeur of their architecture and the beauty of the sacred art found within.
However, the incredible architecture of these churches should never distract someone from the presence of Jesus Christ in the tabernacle. For this reason, a beautiful canopy structure is sometimes added above the altar to draw attention to the Eucharist.
When St. Peter’s Basilica was under construction, Pope Urban VIII wanted something to make up for the small size of the main altar where only the pope is allowed to say Mass. And so a solid canopy with large pillars and a roof was completed after nine years of construction.
Main altar, Saint Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City
This structure is known as a baldacchino, and many churches have some form of a baldacchino to emphasize the altar and tabernacle—though they are considerably smaller than the one in St. Peter’s Basilica!
The baldacchino in St. Peter’s has intricate details that symbolize aspects of the Catholic Faith. For example, on the underside of the roof, exactly above where the pope stands during Mass, there is a radiant sun. This sun represents the presence of the Holy Spirit.
A baldacchino—whether found in St. Peter’s or a neighborhood parish—brings a beautiful focus to all the sacred artistic elements of a church. It shows how all this beauty is a reflection of the Beauty to be found in the tabernacle, and Who becomes present on the altar in every Mass.
You can also highlight the importance of your faith in your home with a Holy Spirit Glass Roundel. This image bears a similarity to the famous alabaster image of the Holy Spirit behind the baldacchino in St. Peter’s Basilica. You can hang it on a window and see the radiance of the Holy Spirit when the sun shines through! Purchase yours today at The Catholic Company!
