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.
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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.
Recommended Nearby:
Papal Basilica of St. Peter’s
An early Christian church dedicated to deacon and first martyr St. Stephan, is located on the Celio, one of the highest of the legendary seven hills of Rome.
Similar Churches:
Papal Basilica of St. John Lateran
Like St. Paul’s, this is one of the oldest Christian basilicas in Rome, featuring grand classical columns and an immense nave, representing the power and influence of the early Church.
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