Peter is Here: AI for Cultural Heritage is an immersive learning experience that allows students to explore and restore St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, combining history, art, technology, and faith in an engaging new way, using the Minecraft Education platform.
Students are invited to step into the role of restorers and artisans, working with advanced AI tools to inspect, preserve, and repair different sections of the Basilica. They will uncover the rich historical and cultural significance of the building as they work through four historical periods, from the Vatican Obelisk to Bernini’s Baldachin. Through this process, students will learn about the intricate relationship between architecture, art, and the Catholic faith, gaining a deeper understanding of both the history of the Church and the importance of cultural preservation.
The experience is designed to be highly interactive and encourages teamwork and critical thinking. Students can explore the Basilica’s fully restored spaces, interact with key historical figures, and even experience its transformation over time. By working in a digital space that combines creativity and learning, students not only engage with the subject matter but also develop a range of skills in problem-solving and collaboration.
Peter is Here was developed as a collaboration with The Vatican, Minecraft Education, and Microsoft.
Microsoft’s Vice Chair and President Brad Smith described the Minecraft for Education version of the Basilica as, “the way we take this wonderful institution, the culture, the religion, the heritage, and we put it into the hands of children in every country around the world,” he said.
Secretary General, Fratelli tutti Foundation, Father Francesco Occhetta SJ said the partnership has brought together a new community of people – educators, students and experts – “by the will of sharing ideas and projects under the sign of a universal fraternity.”
In line with the spirit of the Jubilee, Peter is Here: AI for Cultural Heritage will “allow everybody, even those who cannot physically be in Rome, to come closer to the beauty, history and spirituality of St. Peter’s Basilica.
“We are certain that this initiative represents a unique educational opportunity, which can help new generations to comprehend the importance of preserving our cultural and sacred heritage.” Father Occhetta SJ said.
National Catholic Education Executive Director Jacinta Collins welcomed the initiative, calling it an innovative and engaging way for students to connect with the spiritual and historical legacy of the Basilica.
“By integrating learning with Minecraft, a platform already popular among students, this initiative meets them where they are—making Church history accessible, relevant, and engaging,” she said.
“This is a unique collaboration between the Catholic Church, Minecraft Education and Microsoft and we are delighted to support this project and encourage schools to explore Peter is Here as a way to connect students with the Catholic faith tradition in a meaningful and interactive way.”