Notably, the billboards being installed boast LED technology. Given that LED signage involves the assembly of LED components to construct a panel, size and shape restrictions are practically nonexistent, lending itself well to creating expansive displays. (Image courtesy of Samsung Elecs)
SEOUL & VATICAN, Aug. 23 (Korea Bizwire) —Massive billboards crafted by Samsung Electronics in South Korea are poised to grace St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican, a revered Catholic sanctuary visited annually by millions of people.
Replacing the existing Japanese Panasonic billboards, which have adorned the square for 16 years since their installation in 2007, the new Samsung billboards are ready to take their place.
A representative from Samsung commented, “We are in the process of installing a total of four billboards, comprising two expansive 366-inch displays on each side, and two 260-inch screens indoors. Our goal is to have the installation completed by the close of this month.”
Constructed in the 17th century by the Italian Baroque architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, St. Peter’s Square boasts an oval design that can accommodate up to 300,000 individuals.
The square serves as a backdrop for numerous public events, some under the auspices of Pope Francis himself.
Despite its diminutive size, the Vatican commands global attention as the global epicenter of Catholicism and the residence of the Pope. (Image courtesy of Pixabay)
With the intention of enabling vast crowds to witness Pope Francis’s ceremonies from a distance, four outdoor display boards are strategically positioned throughout the square.
Nestled within Rome, the Vatican stands as a small city-state located approximately 20 kilometers west of the meandering River Tiber.
Encompassing an area of 0.44 square kilometers, the Vatican’s expanse is roughly 1.3 times the size of Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul.
Despite its diminutive size, the Vatican commands global attention as the global epicenter of Catholicism and the residence of the Pope.
Drawing millions of Catholics, pilgrims, and tourists annually, the Vatican Museums alone welcomed 6.9 million visitors in 2019. Anticipating the Vatican Jubilee in 2025, an estimated 30 million visitors are expected to flock to the Vatican.
The introduction of the Samsung billboards stem from a meeting between Cardinal Lazarus You Heung-sik, the Vatican’s Secretary of State for the Clergy, and Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong.
Notably, the billboards being installed boast LED technology. Given that LED signage involves the assembly of LED components to construct a panel, size and shape restrictions are practically nonexistent, lending itself well to creating expansive displays. (Image courtesy of Samsung Elecs)
Cardinal You, the first Korean cleric to assume a Vatican ministerial role in June 2021, gained cardinal status on May 29 of the previous year, becoming the fourth Korean to attain such a position.
Cardinal You recounted, “In late July last year, Lee Jae-yong personally visited the Holy See to extend his congratulations on my cardinal appointment, despite not being a Catholic himself. We engaged in a meaningful conversation.”
Their dialogue primarily revolved around values, and this initial connection between the Vatican and Samsung Electronics eventually culminated in the replacement of the aging billboards.
Cardinal You explained, “The Vatican had been considering replacing the Panasonic billboards due to their age, visible wear, and insufficient resolution.”
The process of replacing the outdoor signage within St. Peter’s Square commenced in July during a period of reduced outdoor events due to a heatwave. Currently, it nears completion and is expected to undergo testing and become operational in early September.
In commemoration of this milestone, a Samsung delegation is scheduled to visit the Vatican. While the exact date remains unconfirmed, reports indicate that the delegation will meet with Pope Francis on the morning of September 13, coinciding with his general audience session. A potential signing ceremony is also on the agenda.
Notably, the billboards being installed boast LED technology. Given that LED signage involves the assembly of LED components to construct a panel, size and shape restrictions are practically nonexistent, lending itself well to creating expansive displays.
Furthermore, LED technology ensures high resolution, delivering impeccable image quality even when exposed to direct sunlight.
Reports suggest that Samsung Electronics is not only supplying outdoor billboards but also sound equipment, signifying a comprehensive contribution to enhancing the visual and auditory experience in this iconic location.
Despite its diminutive size, the Vatican commands global attention as the global epicenter of Catholicism and the residence of the Pope. (Image courtesy of Pixabay)
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
