Pope Leo XIV was reportedly appalled after he learned that a man had urinated on the high altar at Saint Peter’s Basilica, according to international media reports.
Following the news, the pontiff ordered the holy site to undergo a purification rite.
The unidentified man was caught urinating on the Altar of Confession above the Saint Peter’s tomb. Peter, in addition to being among the original followers of Jesus, is one of Christianity's most revered saints. It is at his tomb where the Pope typically performs Catholic Mass.
The unidentified man was arrested by two officials and was filmed exposing his behind while bending to pull up his trousers.
Arrest of the man
According to reports from the week of October 14, the man is understood to have remained in custody.
The basilica, the centrepiece of the Vatican City State, was temporarily closed to the public on Monday.