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Images of the apostles Peter, Paul, Andrew and John dating back to the 4th Century have been discovered inside the Santa Tecla Catacomb in Rome. These are the oldest known images of the Apostles which have ever come to light. The excavation was carried out under the Pontifical Commission on Sacred Architecture and presented today by the President of the Pontifical Council on Culture, Monsignor Gianfranco Ravasi. The restorations which began two years ago in the small painted cubicle of the catacomb are still revealing secrets. One year ago, at the end of the celebration of the Year of St. Paul, an ancient portrait of St. Paul dating back to the 4th Century was discovered. Today, the discovery of other important paintings found on the ceiling was announced. Using lasers to eliminate the heavy layer of lime, threecarapaces bearing a remarkable likeness to the three Apostles, were uncovered. Peter is recognizable by his white hair and beard which distinguish the oldest pictures of the Fisherman-Apostle. Andrew is identifiable by his impetuosity and power. Finally, John is shown by his delicate and youthful features.The laser has also revealed a representation of Christ the Teacher ...