In 1497, Jean de Billheres wanted a work of sculpture for the side chapel at Old Saint Peter’s Basilica, so he requested Michelangelo for the completion of the project. He completed the pietà in 1498 and depicted Virgin Mary carrying the dead body of Christ after his crucifixion. Michelangelo used a block of Carrara marble for the sculpture. The pietà is currently located in the same chapel as its origin.

David, a beautiful marble statue, depicts the Biblical King David. Michelangelo was given the task in 1501 and he finished carving David in 1504. The eighteen-foot sculpture symbolized the Republic of Florence as an independent city-state, which stayed strong from the threats of outside neighbors. The statue is in the Academia Gallery in Florence in order to protect the sculpture from further harm.

The new basilica was built by numerous architects including Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bramante. The project began in 1506 and was fully finished in 1626. The building is in Vatican City. Michelangelo designed the dome, crossing, and exterior excluding the nave and façade. Materials used were concrete, marble, gold, and glass. Michelangelo was thrilled for this project and refused payment of any kind.