Revitalized apprentice system breathes new life into preservation of St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica, the world's largest church, stands as a testament to breathtaking architecture and awe-inspiring sculptures. Behind the scenes, a new generation is being trained in the delicate art of preserving the ancient treasures through a revitalized apprentice system. 

The new program aims to address the scarcity of skilled restorers and craftsmen, who play a crucial role in the restoration work required at the Basilica. According to director Assunta Di Sante, there is a noticeable shortage of experienced artisans, with the average age being over 60 years old. 

"When they retire, we risk losing all of that know-how," Di Sante said.