Basilica Santi Giovanni e Paolo
Piazza Dei SS. Giovanni e Paolo Roma Roma
The Basilica of Santi Giovanni e Paolo, located on the Caelian Hill in Rome, is one of the city's most historically significant churches. Built in the 4th century on the site of the house of two early Christian martyrs, Saints John and Paul, the basilica commemorates their execution under Emperor Julian the Apostate around 362 AD. The church features a beautiful Romanesque bell tower and a richly decorated interior with frescoes, intricate altars, and ancient mosaics. Beneath the basilica lie well-preserved Roman houses, known as the Case Romane, which contain vibrant frescoes and offer a glimpse into early Christian worship spaces. The basilica became a key pilgrimage site, symbolizing the perseverance of faith during periods of persecution. Over centuries, it underwent several architectural changes, blending elements of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Today, Santi Giovanni e Paolo stands as a testament to Rome’s enduring Christian heritage and is a sacred site for visitors exploring the history of early Christian martyrs.