Archaeologists Unearth What They Think is Apostle Paul's Tomb

Archaeologists Unearth What They Think is Apostle Paul's Tomb

ROME (AP) - Archaeologists at the Vatican have unearthed what they believe is the tomb of Paul the apostle.

The sarcophagus had been buried beneath Rome's second largest basilica and dates back to at least the fourth century. Excavation began in 2002 and was completed last month.

The head of the project says the archaeologists want the apostle Paul's remains to be visible for reasons of devotion and respect.

Two ancient churches that once stood at the site of the current basilica were successively built over the spot where tradition said Paul was buried. The second church had left the tomb visible, first above ground and later in a crypt.

The project's findings will be officially presented at a Vatican news conference on Monday.

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