Vatican Hosts Historic Drone Show and Concert in St. Peter’s Square

St. Peter’s Square turned into a spectacular stage on Saturday evening as more than 80,000 people gathered for Grace for the World, a grand concert combined with a drone performance marking the conclusion of the third World Meeting on Human Fraternity.

For the first time in Vatican history, over 3,000 drones illuminated the sky above St. Peter’s Basilica, creating striking religious and cultural images. The show depicted Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam, the Virgin Mary, the Pietà, doves symbolizing peace, radiant hearts, and even a glowing portrait of the late Pope Francis.

The production was carried out by Nova Sky Stories, a drone company owned by Kimbal Musk, brother of Elon Musk. Organizers explained that the show had been in preparation for nearly two years and required special Vatican approval following the passing of Pope Francis and the election of Pope Leo XIV. Drones were deployed in groups, with recharging stations discreetly placed in Vatican parking spaces and near railway tracks.

The high-tech display followed a musical finale co-directed by Andrea Bocelli and Pharrell Williams. The concert featured international stars such as John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, Karol G, and the gospel ensemble Voices of Fire. Bocelli opened the night with a powerful rendition of Amazing Grace alongside American singer Teddy Swims, their duet resonating through the square before being met with thunderous applause.

In addition to music, the event carried a strong message of peace and unity. Nobel laureates Kailash Satyarthi and Nadia Murad, together with Mozambican humanitarian Graça Machel Mandela, urged the world to end conflict and violence while calling for deeper dedication to human dignity and global solidarity.

Organizers described the evening as “a moment of unity that combined centuries of religious tradition with the possibilities of modern technology, shared with a worldwide audience.”