ROME: RAIN OF ROSES AT THE PANTHEON FOR PENTECOST

ANCIENT TRADITION • A evocative and traditional "rain of roses" surprised worshippers and tourists at the Pantheon in Rome on Pentecost Sunday. Thousands of petals fell from the dome's oculus, symbolizing the descent of the Holy Spirit.

A traditional "rain of roses" enchanted tourists and worshippers alike on Sunday at the Pantheon in Rome, marking Pentecost. This striking event symbolizes the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Virgin Mary and the Apostles.

The Rome Fire Department participated with its personnel in the Pentecost Mass, held inside the Basilica of Santa Maria ad Martyres (the Pantheon). The climax of the ceremony was the showering of thousands of rose petals, which gracefully fell through the oculus, the circular opening at the center of the dome.

Thousands of faithful and visitors witnessed this captivating ceremony, marveling as the petals were released by the Fire Department's Speleo-Alpine-River team.