Q&A
Why do people touch Saint Peter’s foot?
• SHORT ANSWER
Centuries of pilgrimages and prayers have taken their toll on the first pope
• LONG ANSWER
Among the priceless treasures found inside St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican is a bronze statue of Saint Peter. Generally attributed to the 13th-century Italian architect Arnolfo di Cambio, this depiction of Christ’s apostle (and first pope) is sat on a throne and holding a key to the kingdom of Heaven. Yet the most striking feature is the right foot sticking out from the marble plinth, which has been so severely worn that it more resembles a flipper. The toes have all but disappeared due to a centuries-old tradition of pilgrims coming to the holy place, built on the site of Saint Peter’s tomb, and kissing or rubbing the foot while asking for a blessing. After untold millions of touches, going on to this day, the bronze stood no chance.