A Tongan mother has been praised for her determination after climbing 320 of the 551 steps of St Peter’s Basilica’s Dome during a pilgrimage to the Vatican.
Kasilita Fonofehi Lanumata, 75, one of the oldest members of Tongan groups travelling from New Zealand and Tonga, completed the ascent,a journey that typically takes an hour, as part of her spiritual journey.
Her daughter, Malia Lanumata, said the trip was a birthday gift for her mother, who turned 75 last month.
“I knew this would be the most precious gift for her,” Malia told Kaniva Tonga News.
Despite being away from traditional Tongan food for the longest time in her life, surviving on potatoes and crackers, Kasilita remained in good health throughout the pilgrimage.
“She said she felt full from time to time because this was a holy place,” Malia shared, reflecting on her mother’s deep spiritual fulfilment during their visit for the appointment of Pope Leo XIV.
Malia marvelled at the structure of the Dome, describing it as “just amazing.” She noted the extensive use of marble stone, which she believed would ensure the historic building’s longevity.
Malia was happy to see her mum reach the top of the dome, believing she was one of the first Tongan elder mothers to achieve that.
She said her mum took the elevator before climbing the 320 steps.
Most of the Tongan pilgrims have now returned home, joining over 30,000 Tongan Catholics worldwide in celebrating their faith.
551 Steps of St. Peter’s Basilica
The Dome of St Peter’s Basilica, designed by Michelangelo in 1546, is a Renaissance marvel.
Michelangelo completed the drum by 1564 but passed away.
Giacomo della Porta and Domenico Fontana finished construction in 1590, adapting their design with minor alterations.
A total of 551 steps lead to the top of the Dome. Visitors can take an elevator for part of the ascent, reducing the climb to 320 steps.
Marking the tomb of St Peter, the first Pope, its soaring design creates a visual bridge between heaven and earth, evoking awe and reverence in all who behold it.
Women Taken Key Roles
Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIV has appointed Sister Tiziana Merletti, former Superior General of the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor, as Secretary of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.
She will serve under Sister Simona Brambilla, who made history in January as the first woman to lead a Vatican department, the Vatican News said.
Sister Merletti is now the third woman to hold a Secretary position in the Roman Curia, following Sister Alessandra Smerilli and her predecessor, Sister Brambilla.
This marks continued progress under Pope Francis’ reforms, allowing laypeople and women to lead dicasteries—a role once reserved for cardinals.
Since Pope Francis’ election, the proportion of women working in the Holy See and Vatican City State has risen from 19.2% to 23.4%, signalling a gradual shift toward greater inclusion in the Church’s governance.
