Roman basilicas checked for structural damage after earthquake

Officials in Rome have checked the city’s major basilicas for structural damage in the wake of an earthquake that shook central Italy and destroyed the historic basilica of St. Benedict in Norcia. 

No significant damage was detected in St. Peter’s basilica, and most other churches in Rome escaped unscathed. 

However, the basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls was closed on Monday after chunks of plaster fell from the roof. 

The church was re-opened after engineers concluded that the structure was safe. 

However, a large visible crack appeared on the top of the facade.