Two very special symbols are found within the Basilica's interior. At the front of the shrine, at opposite ends of the pews, stand two Items of Papal Significance. Both can only be found within shrines which have attained the level of "Basilica" -- or "House of the Pope." They are:

The Tintinnabulum. The tintinnabulum is a small gold bell mounted on a six-foot pole with a golden frame crowned with the papal tiara and keys. If the Pope was to say Mass within the Basilica, the tintinnabulum would be used to lead the very special procession down the shrine's aisle.

The Canopeum. The canopeum, or umbrella, is a mark of honor for a basilica, a symbolic shield for the Pope during his travels. The canopeum remains half open -- until the Pope says Mass at the Basilica -- when it would be completely opened.

Those two items, along with the Papal Coat of Arms (two crossed keys below the Papal tiara) -- which hangs just above the Basilica's main entrance -- signify the shrine's sacred place within the Catholic community.