Showtime announced today that they've ordered their first pilot for 2013. "The Vactican" is described as being a provocative contemporary genre thriller about spirituality, power and politics – set against the modern-day political machinations within the Catholic church. Ridley Scott is attached to direct the pilot.

The series will explore the relationships and rivalries as well as the mysteries and miracles behind one of the world's most hidden institutions. Two–time Oscar nominee (Quiz Show, Donnie Brasco) and three-time Emmy nominee ("House M.D.") Paul Attanasio wrote the hour-long script.

"The Vatican" will begin production in 2013 and is being produced by Sony Pictures Television in association with Showtime for series consideration. Attanasio, Scott, and David Zucker (The Good Wife) will serve as executive producers.

(Photo Credit: WENN.com)