Dedication of the Basilicas of St. Peter & St. Paul
Image: St.Paul Street Evangelization
Today Christians celebrate the dedication of two of the 4 major Basilicas in Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica was originally built in 323 by the Emperor Constantine over the tomb of Saint Peter the Apostle (Feast Day: 29 June) the Church’s first Pope.
After standing for more than 1,000 years Pope Julius II ordered the building to be torn down due to structural concerns. The reconstruction of the new Church spanned over 200 years before its completion. It was dedicated on this date in 1626 and is considered the most famous Church in Christendom.
St. Paul’s Basilica is located outside the original walls of Rome. Originally build by Emperor Constantine, it was destroyed by fire in 1823 however donations from around the world made the reconstruction possible.
Before the completion of St. Peter’s Basilica – St. Paul’s Basilica was the largest Church in Rome–This Basilica was built over the grave of St. Paul (Feast Day: 29 June) — Pope Pius IX consecrated the Basilica in 1854
St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Paul’s Basilica continue to draw millions of tourists each and every year.
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