Saint Paul is Burning

In this episode, we explore the dramatic rebirth of the Basilica of San Paolo fuori le mura after its devastating fire in 1823. From the ancient connection to Saint Paul’s tomb to the architectural debates following the disaster, we uncover the story of how this sacred site was transformed. The episode delves into the tensions between tradition and modernity, as architects like Giuseppe Valadier and Luigi Poletti navigated the balance between historical accuracy and innovation. Through this reconstruction, the basilica became a powerful symbol of resilience, faith, and the Catholic Church’s enduring influence.