Gregorian Chapel


In the Annals a leaflet much used during the XVI century , it says that this chapel, the first one to be finished according to Michelangelo's designs, is the most beautiful and lavish in the world. It is indeed worthwhile to stop
and admire the inlays of colored marble, mother of pearl, and gemstones, the  carved capitals, mosaics of all colors and the enchanting stuccowork on the ceiling.

Above the altar, set into fine marble, is an image of the Virgin Mary. 

It was originally in the old basilica and is known as Our Lady of Succour. She joyfully presents Jesus, "blessed fruit of her womb" who will redeem our sins.

After presenting their credentials, to the pope, Catholic diplomats accredited to the Holy See go to the chapel of the Blessed Sacrament in the basilica and stop here to ask the Virgin for her assistance; then they go on to see the Tomb of St. Peter.

 In the middle of altar is a porphyry urn containing the remains of St. Gregory of Nazianzus (died 390) who was known as the Luminary of Cappadocia. Together with St. John Chrysostom, Leo the Great and Gregory the Great he was an ardent defender of Church Dogma and a brilliant theologian.

With his colleagues, he now rests in the basilica.

To the right of the chapel is the monument to Pope Gregory XVI (1831-1846), who did much to defend the faith.