The Secret World Of History's First Pope | St Peter's Holy Relics: The Quest | Timeline

The script discusses Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome, a significant monument in Christian history believed to be built on the site of Peter's martyrdom and burial. It delves into the mystery of the Vatican's greatest treasure, the relics of Saint Peter, and questions the authenticity of the bones found there. The importance of these relics to the Vatican is highlighted, as Peter is considered the first pope. The script also mentions archaeological excavations in Israel and a new discovery of bones in Rome, suggesting a potential connection to Saint Peter and adding a layer of intrigue to the story of his remains.

This paragraph continues the exploration of Saint Peter's relics, focusing on the historical and archaeological efforts to authenticate the bones believed to be his. It details the discovery of a mysterious funeral monument from the second century and the subsequent excavations that led to the unearthing of bones. The narrative also touches on the significance of these relics to the papacy and the controversy surrounding their authenticity. The paragraph concludes with the unexpected discovery of an inscription and bones in the Church of Santa Maria in Capella, sparking a new chapter in the search for Saint Peter's relics.

The script examines Saint Peter's role as the leader of the Apostles and the Prince of the Apostles, and how his relics have been used throughout history to reinforce the Pope's authority. It discusses the discovery of bones in a small church and the subsequent debate over their authenticity. The paragraph also explores the historical figure of Saint Peter, from his humble beginnings as a fisherman to his transformation into a central figure in Christianity. The importance of Saint Peter's relics in asserting the legitimacy of the papacy is underscored, particularly in the context of Pope Urban II's actions.

This part of the script delves into the biblical narrative surrounding Saint Peter, highlighting his close relationship with Jesus and the significant powers granted to him, symbolized by the keys to heaven. It discusses the interpretation of this power and how it has been used to establish the hierarchical structure of the Church, with the Pope as Peter's successor. The paragraph also touches on the debate between Protestants and Catholics regarding the interpretation of biblical texts concerning Peter's role and the establishment of the Church's leadership.

The script narrates the archaeological quest to uncover the lost city of Bethsaida, believed to be the birthplace of Saint Peter and two other Apostles, Andrew and Philip. It details the excavations at et-Tell and the subsequent discoveries at el-Araj, which have provided clues about the city's location and its significance in early Christianity. The paragraph discusses the findings that suggest el-Araj may be the true site of Bethsaida, including the discovery of a Roman bathhouse, a Byzantine church, and a potential reliquary.

This paragraph describes the Church of Saint Peter in Gallicantu, which commemorates the judgment of Jesus by the high priest and Peter's threefold denial of Jesus. It recounts the biblical account of Peter's betrayal and the emotional turmoil he experienced, highlighting his human weaknesses and the subsequent redemption. The narrative underscores the significance of Peter's denial and its role in shaping his character and mission in the early spread of Christianity.

The script explores the tradition that Saint Peter traveled to Rome to spread Christianity and the historical debate surrounding his presence in the city. It discusses the Vatican's use of Peter's visit and death in Rome to assert its power and the construction of Saint Peter's Basilica over his supposed tomb. The paragraph also questions the biblical evidence for Peter's journey to Rome and the Vatican's efforts in the 20th century to confirm his presence in the city through excavations.

This part of the script focuses on the persecution of Christians in Rome, particularly during the great fire of 64 A.D. It narrates the traditional story of Saint Peter's arrest, imprisonment, and execution, as well as the rumors and historical accounts that implicate Emperor Nero in the tragedy. The paragraph also discusses the legend of Peter's crucifixion upside down and the significance of his martyrdom in Catholic tradition.

The script delves into the historical debate over the location of Saint Peter's crucifixion, discussing the traditional belief that it occurred at Nero's Circus and the alternative theory that it took place midway between two pyramids on the hill of the Janiculum. It explores the origins of this theory, the medieval fascination with the mystery, and the impact of these debates on the veneration of Saint Peter's relics and the construction of churches dedicated to his memory.

This paragraph discusses Emperor Constantine's belief in the location of Saint Peter's tomb and his decision to build the first Saint Peter's Basilica over it. It describes the challenges of constructing the church on a marshy, sloping site next to Nero's Arena and the subsequent loss of access to the original tomb. The narrative also touches on the controversy surrounding the authenticity of the relics and the medieval and modern debates about Saint Peter's presence in Rome.

The script describes the secretive archaeological excavations ordered by Pope Pius XII in 1939, which aimed to locate Saint Peter's tomb. It details the discovery of a necropolis and a small monument within it, believed to be Saint Peter's tomb. The paragraph also discusses the subsequent rediscovery of bones found during the excavations and the ongoing debate about their authenticity as Saint Peter's relics, including the theory that some bones may have been transferred to other locations, such as the Church of Santa Maria in Capella.