Pilgrimage to San Pietro in Vincoli: The Chains of St. Peter and Michelangelo’s Moses
Monday of the First Week of Lent
Our newly produced podcast! Listen now!
On the Monday of the First Week of Lent, we find ourselves at San Pietro in Vincoli (Saint Peter in Chains), a church that, while not as famous as some of Rome’s more well-known basilicas, holds profound significance. Today, this stop on our Lenten pilgrimage offers us a chance to reflect on the powerful relics of St. Peter’s chains and the magnificent art that decorates the space, particularly Michelangelo’s Moses.
The Chains of St. Peter: A Sign of Faith and Freedom
The church is named for the relics that it houses: the chains that once bound St. Peter. Tradition tells us that these chains came from two different imprisonments—one in Jerusalem, and one in Rome—each of which played a key role in the Apostle’s witness to Christ. When the chains were brought to Rome by Empress Eudoxia in the 5th century, Pope Leo I received them and placed them alongside the chains that had held Peter in Rome. Miraculously, the two sets of chains fused together, symbolizing the unity of Peter’s sufferings and his mission.
These chains are kept in a reliquary beneath the high altar, and for pilgrims, they’re a powerful symbol. Though Peter was physically bound, his faith was never in chains. In fact, his chains became a symbol of freedom in Christ. As we reflect on this during Lent, we’re reminded that our own burdens—whether physical or spiritual—can be transformed through faith.
Michelangelo’s Moses: Art That Speaks to the Soul
While the chains of St. Peter are the main draw for many visitors, there is another treasure in San Pietro in Vincoli that deserves attention: Michelangelo’s Moses. This striking sculpture, created for the tomb of Pope Julius II, is one of the Renaissance artist’s masterpieces. Although the tomb was never completed as originally envisioned, Moses stands as a testament to Michelangelo’s genius.
The figure of Moses is seated, holding the tablets of the Ten Commandments, his gaze intense and his expression filled with the weight of divine law. The famous “horns” on Moses’ head, which stem from a mistranslation of the Bible, have become a distinctive feature, though they’re not meant to imply that Moses had literal horns. Rather, they are symbolic of the radiance of God’s presence, a visual reflection of the divine light that emanated from Moses when he came down from Mount Sinai.
Moses, like Peter, is a leader bound by his calling to God. His powerful form and stern expression invite us to reflect on our own relationship with God’s commands. Moses led the Israelites out of slavery and into freedom, just as Christ’s sacrifice leads us to spiritual freedom.
Chains and the Law: The Lenten Connection
In San Pietro in Vincoli, the symbolism of chains and the law are brought together in a way that resonates deeply during Lent. Peter’s chains are a reminder that physical captivity does not define us, and Moses’ tablets remind us that God’s law, though it may seem burdensome, ultimately leads to freedom.
As we journey through Lent, we’re invited to examine our own chains—the sins, fears, and obstacles that keep us from fully living out our faith. Just as Peter’s chains did not bind his soul, we, too, are called to break free from the chains that hold us back and step into the freedom that Christ offers.
A Call to Reflect
As you stand in San Pietro in Vincoli during this pilgrimage (virtually or in person), take a moment to reflect. The chains of St. Peter are not just relics of the past—they are symbols of the power of faith to turn suffering into a witness for Christ. And the figure of Moses reminds us that God’s law, while demanding, ultimately frees us to live in His truth.
This Lent, let us walk in the freedom of Christ, ready to break the chains that bind us and respond to God’s call with the strength and devotion of Moses, Peter, and all those who have gone before us.
Looking Ahead:
Tomorrow, we continue our pilgrimage to Santa Anastasia. Join us as we move forward in our Lenten journey, visiting the sacred stations of Rome.
Virtual Tour of St. Peter in Chains
If you appreciate our work you can become a Patron at our Patreon. Or, please consider a one time gift offering via PayPal.
Don’t forget to subscribe here to stay up-to-date with the ancient pilgrimage in Rome of the Roman Station Churches and other beautiful traditions from Rome and the Vatican!
Crux Stationalis 