A Guide to
​St Peter's Basilica

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The Door of Death

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Door of Death

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Door of Death (1961-63) by Giacomo Manzù

The Door of Death, the work of Giacomo Manzù (1908-91), was commissioned by Pope John XXIII (r. 1958-63). The Porta della Morte, which was once used as the exit for funeral processions (hence its name), was consecrated by Pope Paul IV (r. 1963-78) on June 28th 1964.

The two large reliefs depict the Death of Mary and the Death of Jesus. The eight smaller reliefs depict on the left: The Death of Abel, The Death of St Joseph, The Death of St Peter & The Death of Pope John XXIII, and on the right: The Death of St Stephen & The Death of Pope Gregory VII. The last two reliefs are not specific depictions.

In the centre of the door a vine branch and some ears of wheat refer to the bread and wine of the Eucharist. 

At the base of the door are six creatures: a blackbird, a dormouse, a hedgehog, an owl, a tortoise and a raven. 

There are two reliefs on the back of the door, which relate to the opening of the Second Vatican Council by Pope John XXIII on October 11th 1962. Manzù also added his signature in the shape of his hand print.  

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Door of Death: Upper Part

Door of Death: Lower Part