“St. Peter’s and the Papal Basilicas of Rome” takes you on a cinematic journey through the four Papal Basilicas in Rome and their treasures.

The 1891 Fredonia Opera House will present “St. Peter’s and the Papal Basilicas of Rome,” a unique production that combines history, spirituality, architecture and art, on Saturday at 1 p.m. as part of its Arts in the Afternoon series.

“St. Peter’s and the Papal Basilicas of Rome” takes you on a cinematic journey through the four Papal Basilicas in Rome and their treasures: St. Peter’s (one of the 25 destinations most visited by international tourists from all over the world), St. John in the Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls. Four majestic buildings – each with a precious papal altar, each a treasure trove of timeless works of art and a destination for millions of travelers and pilgrims over the centuries.

The life stories of popes and artists will be told, as will the events that made these places immortal, the spirituality they emanate and the mysteries and legends associated with them.  Architecture, art, history and spirituality will be recounted in the words of those well acquainted with the deepest recesses of the spirit of these buildings. The production runs approximately one hour, 30 minutes.

Individual tickets to “St. Peter’s and the Papal Basilicas” are $15, ($10 students). Tickets may be purchased in person at the Opera House Box Office or by phone at 716-679-1891, Tuesday-Friday, noon to 4:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased online anytime at www.fredopera.org.

Arts in the Afternoon is sponsored by Dr. James M. & Marcia Merrins. Support also comes from the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, and from the United Arts Appeal of Chautauqua County.

The 1891 Fredonia Opera House is a member-supported not-for-profit organization located in Village Hall in downtown Fredonia. For a complete schedule of events, visit www.fredopera.org.