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St. Peter's Basilica: Monument to Pope Alexander VII (d.1667)

Monument to Pope Alexander VII (d.1667)

Monument to Pope Alexander (Chigi) VII (d. 1667) by Bernini, created in 1671-78 west of the left transept. The working door below symbolizes the Gate of Death, above which a skeleton lifts a fold of red marble drapery and holds an hourglass. He is flanked on the right by a statue representing Truth or religion, who rests her foot on a globe ? specifically placed upon the British Isles, symbolizing the pope's problems with the Church of England. Three other figures represent Charity, Prudence and Justice.

Credit: Holly Hayes