Recently we have witness the catastrophic fire in the Cathedral of Notre Dame—and it’s loss to Christianity and Western Culture in general. I have seen many sources dealing with the “traumas” that Notre Dame has suffered though its long history but I was surprised by “it will be rebuilt.” Is this realistic? Or just wishful thinking?
Well, many churches have suffered sever damage through out their history, but to use an example of one in Rome, let me mention the Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls.
This is the church where, according to very early Christian tradtion, the Apostle Paul was buried after his martyrdom. Constantine built the original church, but Theodosius built a new church in this spot around A.D. 390. This church lasted until July 15, 1823 when it was destroyed by a fire caused by careless workmen who were repairing the roof. This church had been standing for about 1,400 years before it was destroyed! Much longer than even Notre Dame (ca. 800 years).
View looking east down the central nave of the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside of the walls. The nave is flanked by double aisle on both the north and the south. At the far (east) end is a triumphal arch that is a relic of the old pre–fire of 1823 that is supported by two granite columns.
On the top is a “grim–faced” Christ holding his hand blessing in the Greek manner. The four winged creatures above him have “faces” that represent the four Evangelists—gospel writers. Below them are figures representing the saints of the Apocalyse (book of Revelation). On the lower left side of the arch is St. Paul with a sword (of the spirit/word) and to the right St. Peter holding the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.
Notice the grating and behind that, a small portion of the sarcophagus that is said to contain the remains of Saint Paul is barely visible. During the reconstruction of the church two slabs were found with the inscription “PAULO APOSTOLO MART” (to Paul, apostle and martyr). Below the glass floor are rock carvings and a portion of the apse of an earlier church.
View looking east through the courtyard (Quadriporticus) of the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls. The statue on the left is that of Saint Paul. Notice the beautiful mosaics of the church.
If this wonderful church can be rebuilt, certainly Notre Dame can as well!
For 21 images of the important Basilica, Click Here.