On the night of July 15, 1823, this papal basilica went up in flames.
The fire was the result of a failure to repair the lead roof. And the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls was almost completely destroyed.
FR. EDMUND POWER
Former Abbot, St. Paul Outside the Walls
The fire was devastating and its main destruction was the nave. In fact, the whole roof burned and lots of the columns collapsed or crumbled with the heat.
This Basilica is special not only for its architecture but also for the treasure it houses for Christians. Tradition holds that it is the place where the apostle St. Paul was buried.
FR. EDMUND POWER
Former Abbot, St. Paul Outside the Walls
If the question is asked, is Saint Paul really buried here, a question that maybe we can answer yes with some certainty because of fairly recent excavations.
When Pope Benedict XVI gave permission to do a limited excavation or inquiry within the sarcophagus and some remains where found and were dated to the right period, the first century, which therefore we can say confirms the Constantine tradition that St. Paul is buried here.
In 1854, Pope Leo XII asked Christians around the world for help in rebuilding the Basilica. And the response was astounding. Egypt sent alabaster pillars. Russia sent lapis stone for the altars and the Italian government provided the main façade.
PA
TR: KG
