Papal Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls
1a Piazzale San Paolo Roma
The Papal Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, built over the burial site of St. Paul, stands as one of the largest churches in the world and a center of pilgrimage and devotion. Originally consecrated in 330 AD by Pope Sylvester I, the basilica has undergone centuries of expansion, transforming from a modest structure into the 10th largest church in the world.
Facing east toward Jerusalem, the basilica’s most striking features include its vast columned courtyard and the Gothic ciborium, crafted in 1285 by Arnolfo di Cambio. Until the consecration of St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Paul Outside the Walls held the distinction of being Rome’s largest church.
On July 15, 1823, a devastating fire consumed much of the basilica. In response, Pope Leo XII launched an international appeal, receiving generous support from Tsar Nicholas I of Russia and King Fouad of Egypt. The reconstruction became one of the greatest architectural efforts of the 19th century, restoring the basilica to its original grandeur.
The newly rebuilt basilica was consecrated on December 10, 1854, by Pope Pius IX, in a ceremony that also witnessed the proclamation of the Dogma of the Immaculate Conception. Today, St. Paul Outside the Walls continues to be a place of prayer and reflection, where pilgrims venerate the Apostle to the Gentiles, whose tomb lies beneath the high altar, forever marking this sacred space.
The Abbey and Cloister of St. Paul Outside the Walls
Adjacent to the basilica is the Benedictine Abbey of St. Paul Outside the Walls, which has served for centuries as a monastic presence dedicated to prayer, learning, and the care of the sacred site. The monks entrusted with the abbey continue a long tradition of hospitality, welcoming pilgrims who come to honor the Apostle Paul and seek spiritual renewal.
The abbey’s cloister, one of the most beautiful medieval cloisters in Rome, dates to the 13th century and is attributed to the Vassalletto family, renowned Roman craftsmen. Its paired spiral columns are richly inlaid with colorful mosaics of glass and stone, while the capitals are carved with biblical scenes, foliage, and symbolic figures. Together, they create a space that is both visually striking and deeply contemplative.
Designed as a place of silence and meditation, the cloister reflects the Benedictine balance of ora et labora—prayer and work. Walking through its shaded arcades, visitors experience a peaceful counterpoint to the grandeur of the basilica, where sacred art and ordered harmony encourage reflection on Scripture and the monastic life.
Today, the abbey and cloister remain integral to the identity of St. Paul Outside the Walls, offering pilgrims not only a monumental basilica but also an intimate encounter with centuries of uninterrupted monastic devotion at one of Christianity’s most revered sites.
The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul – Patrons of Rome
Each year on June 29, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, honoring the two apostles whose lives and martyrdom are inseparably linked to the city of Rome. This feast holds special importance here at St. Paul Outside the Walls, where the Apostle to the Gentiles is buried, and at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, built over the tomb of the Prince of the Apostles.
Saint Peter and Saint Paul are venerated together because they represent the twin foundations of the Roman Church. Peter, called by Christ to shepherd His flock, symbolizes apostolic authority and unity. Paul, tireless missionary and theologian, embodies the Church’s mission to proclaim the Gospel to all nations. Both apostles sealed their witness with martyrdom in Rome during the persecutions of the first century, making the city a place sanctified by their blood.
Because of their shared witness, Rome honors Peter and Paul as its patron saints. Their legacy defines the city not merely as an imperial capital, but as the heart of the universal Church. The celebration of their feast is marked by solemn liturgies, particularly the papal Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, underscoring Rome’s unique role as a city shaped by apostolic faith, sacrifice, and mission.
Together, Saints Peter and Paul continue to stand as pillars of the Church and guardians of Rome—apostles whose courage and fidelity transformed the Eternal City into a center of Christian life and witness for the world.
Photo Gallery
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We gather in spirit at the Papal Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, a sacred place where Your servant Paul rests, a testament to his unwavering faith and dedication to spreading the Gospel. We thank You, Lord, for this magnificent basilica, a beacon of devotion and a sanctuary for countless pilgrims who seek solace and inspiration.
As we stand before its majestic columns and the exquisite Gothic ciborium, may our hearts be lifted in praise and adoration. We remember the resilience shown after the great fire of 1823, and we give thanks for the unity and generosity that restored this holy site to its original splendor.
Bless all who visit and pray here, that they may be touched by the same transformative grace that changed Saul to Paul. May this basilica continue to be a refuge of peace, a haven of prayer, and a testament to Your enduring love and mercy.
Guide us to emulate the apostolic zeal of St. Paul, to be fearless in our faith, and to proclaim Your truth with love and conviction. May the spirit of unity and faith that rebuilt this church inspire us to build bridges of understanding and compassion in our own lives.
Through the intercession of St. Paul, Apostle to the Gentiles, may we grow in holiness and be strengthened in our journey towards You.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
How to Locate the Restrooms
The restrooms at St. Paul Outside the Walls are found on the right side of the church, next to the gift shop and café.
Recommended Nearby:
St. Peter's Basilica
Visit the remains of St. Peter's and countless in this Renaissance and Baroque architectural masterpiece at the heart of the Catholic Church.
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