Peering Through the Thick Walls of the Vatican
- by Dagmar Seeland
Unveiling the Inner Workings of the Vatican - Secret Operations within the Vatican's Inner Circle
Growing up across the Tiber River from the mighty St. Peter's Basilica, Christian Sinibaldi, a native Roman, has always been enchanted by its lofty dome, designed by the legendary Michelangelo. Now dwelling in London, the curious and resilient photographer continues to harbor an insatiable curiosity about the secrets hidden behind the formidable walls of the world's smallest state.
Sinibaldi, a man of faith but not genuinely devout, never allowed his inquisitiveness to fade. Ten years ago, he dared to dial the Vatican's press office, passionately explaining his photography project. He braced himself for a refusal, but to his surprise, they inquired about his intended subject matter. A flurry of correspondence and paperwork followed, and Sinibaldi found himself granted access.
It's the People, Not the Prestige
Unlike many, Sinibaldi was fascinated not by the church dignitaries or the regal splendor of the Curie. Instead, his lens yearned for the unsung heroes – the women and men who breathe life into the "Theatrum sacrum," the "sacred theater" of St. Peter's Basilica and various enclaves like the Lateran. Coincidentally, Pope Francis had moved into the Vatican just three years prior, viewing clericalism as an affliction and preferring a simple lunch at the workers' canteen instead of the ornate dining halls of the clergy.
During his initial visits, Sinibaldi focused on observing and building trust with the nuns and workers. Once that bond was established, he subtly wielded his camera, capturing genuine portraits of humanity and warmth – particularly among the nuns who painstakingly iron liturgical garments each day. Even to this day, they warmly welcome Sinibaldi with smiles and sweets.
Secrets, Schmeecrets
Inquisitive whispers of the Vatican's hidden intrigues and scandals often swirl, but Sinibaldi claims, "I'm only privy to a handful of secrets." He remains enigmatic, deep in thought before disclosing, "Perhaps the most significant revelation is the remarkable unity and coherence among the people who uphold this sacred institution."
More Images from the Series
- St. Peter's Basilica
- The Lateran
- Vatican City
- Italian Catholicism
- Everyday Angel
- ** behind-the-scenes**
- Christian Sinibaldi's photography project, focusing on the unsung heroes within the Vatican community, was met with unexpected approval by the Vatican's press office, marking the beginning of his unique access to the world's smallest state.
- Contrary to many, Sinibaldi's fascination lies not in the church dignitaries or the grandeur of the Curie, but in the nuns and workers who breathe life into the sacred theater of St. Peter's Basilica and other Vatican enclaves.
- Sinibaldi, while privy to a few secrets within the Vatican, reveals that perhaps the most significant is the remarkable unity and coherence among those who uphold this sacred institution.
- Beyond the enigmatic whispers of Vatican intrigues and scandals, Sinibaldi's photography series offers glimpses into St. Peter's Basilica, the Lateran, Vatican City, Italian Catholicism, and the everyday angels who make up the Vatican community.
- Sinibaldi, now living in London, continues to enjoy capturing lifestyle images reflecting fashion-and-beauty, home-and-garden, and travel, seeking to share the warm humanity he found within the Vatican with the world.
