Vatican city: The Governorate of Vatican City State and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation have signed a significant agreement to restore several historic monuments at the Basilica of Saint Paul, APA reports.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the agreement was signed by Anar Alakbarov, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Executive Director of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, along with Sister Raffaella Petrini, President of the Governorate of Vatican City State. The signing took place during a meeting in the Vatican, marking a new phase in the collaborative efforts between the two entities.

The new restoration project will focus on the statues of St. Paul and St. Peter located inside the Basilica, as well as the statues of St. Paul and St. Luke in the courtyard. The initiative aims to preserve these significant works of art and maintain the historical integrity of the site.

During a tour of the basilica complex, Cardinal James Michael Harvey, Archpriest of the Papal Basilica of St. Paul, accompanied the delegation and provided detailed information on the ongoing efforts by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. The next phase of restoration work was also discussed, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to cultural preservation.

The Basilica of Saint Paul is renowned for its monumental size, rich mosaics, and extensive columns, making it one of the four major papal basilicas in Rome, second only to St. Peter's Basilica. This sacred site attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year, highlighting its cultural and religious importance.

The restoration project will employ advanced technologies, such as laser surface cleaning and eco-friendly biological conservation methods. These techniques are in line with environmental safety standards and have been previously used effectively in the Vatican Gardens.

The delegation also evaluated past restoration efforts conducted within the Basilica under the Heydar Aliyev Foundation's guidance. Notably, a document signed on September 11, 2024, within the 'Jubilee Year' framework, ensures the preservation of the marble coverings and decorative elements of Saint Paul's Basilica. The restoration and conservation efforts outlined in that agreement have been successfully completed, further cementing the foundation's role in preserving historical sites.