A new documentary about St. Peter’s tomb features Pope Leo XIV

Pétros ení: Discovering the Origins — New Documentary Featuring Pope Leo XIV Explores St. Peter’s Tomb

On the occasion of the 400th anniversary of the inauguration and consecration of St. Peter’s Basilica, a new documentary titled Pétros ení: Discovering the Origins takes viewers on a journey through faith, history, and archaeology to explore the burial place of St. Peter, the first of the Apostles.

The inauguration and consecration of St. Peter’s Basilica took place on November 18, 1626. The documentary commemorates this historic milestone by shedding light on the Apostle Peter’s tomb, which lies beneath the great Basilica within the Vatican Necropolis.

A Journey into the History of St. Peter

Produced by AF Films, founded by Frank Ariza and Manu Vega, in collaboration with Vatican Media, part of the Dicastery for Communication, and the Fabric of St. Peter, the documentary brings together historical research, archaeological insights, and Christian faith.

The film is directed by Spanish filmmaker Paula Ortiz and written by Andrea Tornielli, with archaeological consultation from Pietro Zander, a leading expert on the Vatican Necropolis.

Through images of the crypt and the ancient burial site, the documentary explores the historical and spiritual significance of the tomb, which remains hidden beneath the Basilica. Although modest in appearance, the burial place holds profound importance for Christians around the world because of its connection to St. Peter, one of Jesus Christ’s closest disciples and a foundational figure in the early Church.

Pope Leo XIV and Chris Pratt Share the Story of Peter

American actor Chris Pratt guides viewers through this remarkable journey, taking them into the depths of St. Peter’s Basilica to discover the history surrounding the Apostle’s tomb.

The documentary is further enriched by the special participation of Pope Leo XIV, who appears in the final scenes. The Pope reflects on the figure of St. Peter and the significance of his tomb beneath the Basilica, whose famous colonnade, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, symbolically embraces the Christian faithful and the wider world.

Pratt expressed his gratitude for participating in the project and collaborating with the Pope and the Vatican.

“It was an incredible honor to collaborate with Pope Leo and the Vatican on this project,” Pratt said. He also emphasized that St. Peter’s story is foundational to the Christian faith and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to help bring the Apostle’s legacy to the screen.

A Historic Milestone for St. Peter’s Basilica

The documentary offers an opportunity to rediscover the connection between Christian tradition, archaeology, and the history of one of the most significant churches in the world.

St. Peter’s Basilica stands as a major center of Catholic faith and pilgrimage. The tradition connecting St. Peter to the burial site beneath the Basilica has held deep spiritual significance for generations of Christians.

By bringing together archaeological imagery, historical research, and reflections from Pope Leo XIV, Pétros ení: Discovering the Origins seeks to help viewers understand why St. Peter’s life and legacy continue to inspire the Church today.

The film will receive a special preview screening at the Rome Film Festival on October 16 at 11:30 a.m. Central European Time (CET).

As the Church commemorates the 400th anniversary of the Basilica’s consecration, the documentary invites viewers to reflect on the enduring legacy of St. Peter and his central place in the history and faith of Christianity.