Saint Simon the Zealot: St. Peter’s Basilica

Life and Martyrdom

• c. 5 AD – 30 AD: Simon, called “the Zealot” (possibly a former revolutionary), was an Apostle (Luke 6:15).
• 30–c. 65 AD: Preached with Jude in Persia or Syria. Around 65 AD, he was martyred—possibly sawn in half—in Persia.

Burial and Tomb Development

• c. 65 AD: Buried in Persia.
• 4th–9th Centuries: Relics moved to Rome with Jude’s, eventually to St. Peter’s Basilica.
• Present: Shares a tomb with Jude under the Altar of St. Joseph.

Timeline

• c. 5 AD: Born in Galilee.
• c. 30 AD: Joins the Apostles.
• 30–65 AD: Preaches in Persia.
• c. 65 AD: Martyred and buried in Persia.
• 4th–9th Centuries: Relics to Rome.
• Present: In St. Peter’s Basilica.

Current Status

Simon’s tomb, paired with Jude’s, is a quiet corner of St. Peter’s Basilica, reflecting their joint mission and martyrdom.

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