May 1st 1st century

Saint Philip and Saint James the Less

FIRST DAY OF MAY

Summary

This text recounts the historical discovery of the bodies of the apostles Philip and James the Less on January 15, 1873, under the high altar of the Basilica of the Twelve Apostles in Rome. Scientific and archaeological expertise confirmed the authenticity of the remains, notably by comparison with the head of Saint James kept in Ancona. A decree by Cardinal Puteisi officially authenticated these relics for the veneration of the faithful.

Chronology

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    Biography

    SUPPLEMENT

    FIRST DAY OF MAY

    Official source Les Petits Bollandistes, by Mgr Paul GUÉRIN, chamberlain to His Holiness Pius IX.

    Iconography

    Signs and attributes

    Relics Traditional attribute associated with representations of this figure. Marble urn Traditional attribute associated with representations of this figure.

    Annexes & related entities

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    Key Events

    1. Foundation of the Basilica of the Twelve Apostles in Rome under Constantine the Great
    2. Consecration of the basilica by Pope John III on May 1, 560
    3. Invention (discovery) of the bodies of the two apostles on January 15, 1873
    4. Official recognition of the relics by Cardinal Puteisi on April 19, 1873

    Quotes

    • Let it be established as the truth regarding the bodies recently discovered under the high altar of the Basilica of the Holy Apostles in Rome Decree of Cardinal Puteisi, April 19, 1873

    Iconographic Attributes