The shocking incident happened around 9 a.m., during a morning Mass attended by tourists and faithful believers.
According to witnesses, the unidentified man calmly walked up the steps leading to the Altar of Confession, where the Pope usually celebrates Mass, before suddenly pulling down his pants and urinating on the marble floor.
Videos taken by shocked visitors showed the man quickly pulling up his jeans after the act as security officers rushed to stop him.
Police stationed inside the basilica immediately restrained him and escorted him out of the church. It remains unclear whether he was arrested or taken for a medical check-up.
Church officials have described the act as a serious form of desecration, meaning an insult to a holy place.
The Altar of Confession is especially sacred because it stands directly above the tomb of Saint Peter, one of Jesus Christ’s disciples and the first Pope.
Reports say that Pope Leo XIV was deeply disturbed when he was informed about what had happened.
The Pope has not yet issued a public comment, and the Holy See Press Office has also remained silent about how the Vatican plans to respond.
This is not the first time St. Peter’s Basilica has faced such shocking behavior. In February, another man climbed onto the same altar and broke several candle holders.
And in June 2023, a Polish activist stripped naked on the altar with the words “Save children of Ukraine” written on his back, leading the Vatican to hold special prayers to re-bless the area.
Many Catholics around the world have reacted with sadness and anger, saying the man’s actions were deeply disrespectful.
Others have urged compassion, suggesting that the individual may have been suffering from mental illness.
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