There is already a small caf\u00e9 serving coffee, drinks, and gelato on the roof of the historic church.<\/p>\n
The Vatican has said it is considering enlarging a small coffee and drinks bar already present on the terrace of St. Peter\u2019s Basilica and has denied reports it plans to open a restaurant atop the historic church, according to Vatican News.<\/p>\n
Italian newspaper Il Messaggero claimed earlier this week that renovations are being carried out to open a \u201cbistro\u201d on the roof area of the Vatican basilica.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo cope with the increased number of visitors, an extension of the terrace area accessible to pilgrims is being considered,\u201d the basilica communications office said, according to Vatican News.<\/p>\n
There is already a small caf\u00e9 serving coffee, drinks, and gelato on the roof of St. Peter\u2019s Basilica. Above the church and below the dome, the bar is situated at a halfway point for pilgrims climbing the stairs to visit St. Peter\u2019s cupola.<\/p>\n
A tourist drinks a coffee on the terrace of St-Peter’s basilica at the Vatican, at the base of the towering dome designed by Michelangelo, Monday, Jan. 17, 2005 | Credit: GIULIO NAPOLITANO\/AFP via Getty Images<\/p>\n
\u201cSome spaces would be made available to expand the small refreshment area already in place, with a sober style appropriate to the context, respectful of the sacredness of the place, and meeting the needs of pilgrims,\u201d the basilica said.<\/p>\n
The basilica\u2019s statement claims such an expansion \u201cwould reduce the concentration of visitors in the basilica and promote a more contemplative atmosphere.\u201d<\/p>\n
This article was originally published by EWTN News English.<\/p>\n