Saint Peter and Saint Paul

The feast of Saints Peter and Paul dates back to early Christianity, honoring the martyrdom of Peter (crucified upside down in Rome around AD 64) and Paul (beheaded in Rome around AD 67). The Catholic Church established June 29 as a solemnity. In Colombia, Spanish colonizers brought this tradition in the 16th century, integrating it into the local liturgical calendar. Over time, it became a public holiday, especially in regions with strong Catholic heritage.

In Colombia, Saint Peter and Saint Paul is primarily a religious holiday. Many Colombians attend special Masses dedicated to the apostles, often in churches named after them. Families gather for meals, and in some towns, processions or parades feature statues of the saints. Traditional foods include sancocho (a hearty stew) and empanadas. In coastal areas, seafood dishes are common. The holiday is also a long weekend, so many people travel or enjoy leisure activities.

This feast highlights the foundational role of Peter and Paul in the Christian Church. For Colombian Catholics, it reinforces faith in apostolic authority and the unity of the Church. It also serves as a cultural occasion to honor community bonds and religious identity, blending solemn worship with family and local traditions.