Monument to Pope Innocent VIII
Monument to Pope Innocent VIII
| This is one of the few monuments from the Old Basilica
that has survived to this day. Originally it was under the triumphal arch.
It was designed by Antonio Pollaiolo (1431-1498) the great bronze sculptor.
The Pope (1484-1492) is shown surrounded by the four cardinal Virtues (Prudence,
Justice, Fortitude and Temperance) and in the lunette above are the theological
Virtues (Faith, Hope and Charity). The pope is seated, and in his left
hand holds the spear that pierced Jesus' side, one of the most venerated
relics in the basilica. This lance, or spear, jealously guarded by the
early Christians was later given to the crusaders so that it could be brought
to Rome. It was captured by the Saracens and placed in the religious treasure
of Constantinople. Later, it was surprisingly offered to Pope Innocent
VIII in 1492 by the Turkish sultan Bayazet, son of Mohammed II under the
condition that the Pope would detain the sultan's brother, who was threatening
his power. The pope agreed, (as did the brother who was quite happy to
stay in Rome) and received the lance.
Beneath the monument the Pope is depicted as laying in serene, peaceful death in a sarcophagus. It is interesting to note that notwithstanding some corrections made to the black stone at the base of the monument, there is still an error. It reads that America was discovered during the pontificate of Innocent VIII, the fact is that Columbus set sail from Europe eight days after the pope died. |
