October 10, 2025 | Vatican City
A shocking incident occurred at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City on the morning of October 10, 2025, when a man climbed onto the central confessional altar during Mass and publicly urinated, stunning hundreds of worshippers and tourists. The act, captured on video, quickly spread across social media, drawing widespread outrage and condemnation from Catholics around the world.
According to international media reports, the incident took place around 9 a.m. local time. As Mass was being held inside the basilica, the unidentified man suddenly ran toward the altar, removed his trousers, and urinated in front of the congregation. Security personnel immediately intervened and escorted him out of the church. Witnesses said the man appeared disoriented and briefly attempted to fix his clothing as shocked onlookers watched in disbelief.
The Vatican expressed deep concern over the incident, with reports stating that Church officials were “greatly disturbed” by the act, calling it a “serious desecration of a sacred space.” Videos of the event quickly went viral online, prompting strong reactions from believers. Many described the man’s behavior as “blasphemous” and “deeply offensive,” while others called for stricter security within the basilica.
The location of the incident — beneath Michelangelo’s iconic dome at the Confession Altar — is regarded as one of the most sacred sites in Catholicism. This altar, symbolizing the heart of the Catholic faith, has been the target of several previous disturbances. In February 2025, a man climbed the same area and knocked over six candle stands, while in 2023, a Polish activist staged a nude protest with the words “Save Ukrainian Children” written on his back.
These recurring disruptions have reignited concerns about the effectiveness of security measures at St. Peter’s Basilica. Experts note that while the basilica welcomes millions of pilgrims and tourists each year, its openness also poses significant challenges to maintaining safety and reverence in such a globally significant religious site.