The Basilica di San Paolo fuori le Mura, or the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, is one of the four major churches in Rome. It is not in the center of the city but just outside the ancient walls. That is why it is called “fuori le Mura,” which means “outside the walls.”
This church is very big and beautiful. Many people come here to pray, to learn about history, and to enjoy the peaceful place. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means it is very important to the world.
People visit this basilica for many reasons. Some come for prayer. Others come to see the art and history. The church is very quiet and calm, which is perfect for thinking or relaxing.
In 1980, UNESCO added this basilica to its list of World Heritage Sites. It is part of the group called “Papal Basilicas of Rome.” These are churches with strong connections to the Pope.
The basilica has a long and interesting history. It started more than 1,700 years ago.
The church was first built in the year 324. It was built by Emperor Constantine I, the first Roman emperor to become Christian. He built it over the place where Saint Paul was buried. Later, Emperor Theodosius I made the church bigger.
The basilica became one of the most important Christian places in the world.
In 1823, a big fire destroyed much of the basilica. People all over the world helped to rebuild it. The new building looked like the old one but was stronger and safer.
Many Popes visited and worked on this basilica. Many parts were added or changed over time. Each change tells a piece of the basilica’s story. This is why the basilica is full of different art styles and decorations.
The basilica is very big and full of beautiful art. It mixes old and new styles.
The outside of the basilica is simple, but inside it is full of columns and golden mosaics. These styles are called Romanesque and Neoclassical. Romanesque is the old style, with big arches and strong walls. Neoclassical came later, with clean lines and large spaces.
One of the best parts of the basilica is the cloister. This is a square garden with columns all around it. The columns are all different and very beautiful. You can walk slowly and enjoy the peace there.
Inside the basilica, there are mosaics showing many Popes. Each Pope has a small round picture. These portraits are up high, on the walls. There are also colorful mosaics in the apse (the front, round part of the church).
The basilica is very special because it is the place where Saint Paul is buried.
Many Christians visit this basilica as a pilgrimage. A pilgrimage is a special trip to a holy place. People come from all over the world to pray at Saint Paul’s tomb.
In the 1800s and again in the early 2000s, people found the real tomb under the altar. You can see it through a window near the main altar. There is also a chain there. People believe Saint Paul wore this chain when he was in prison.
The basilica is in the Ostiense area of Rome. You can take the Metro B line and stop at Basilica San Paolo station. It is only a short walk from there.
The basilica is usually open every day from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The cloister and museum have different hours. The entrance to the main basilica is free. But if you want to visit the cloister or museum, you may need to buy a small ticket.
Our guided tours include:
Booking a tour is easy. Just go to our Tour Booking Page and choose the date and time. Our guides speak English and other languages. You will learn a lot and enjoy the visit more.
This area is quiet and not too full of tourists. You can find local cafes and shops. It’s a good place to relax and eat something.
Another big and famous church in Rome is San Giovanni in Laterano. It is also a papal basilica and very beautiful.
This museum mixes old Roman statues with machines from an old power plant. It is very unique and close to the basilica.
This basilica is more than a church. It is a place of history, beauty, and peace. Whether you are religious or not, Basilica di San Paolo fuori le Mura is worth your time when visiting Rome. Book a tour with us and discover one of the most important churches in the world.
Yes, it is open daily. The best time to visit is early in the morning.
No, the main church is free. But the cloister and museum may require a small fee
Yes, but please do not use flash.
One to two hours is enough for most people
Yes, children can enjoy the big space and beautiful art.
Saint Paul was one of the most important figures in early Christianity. He traveled widely to teach about Jesus and wrote many letters in the Bible.
Yes, Mass is held daily. You can attend even if you are a visitor. Check the schedule near the entrance or on the official website.
Yes, the main parts of the basilica are accessible for wheelchairs and people with mobility issues.
Yes, there are guided tours offered by local guides and tour companies. Booking in advance is a good idea.
Yes, there is a small gift shop with religious items and souvenirs. There are also cafés and restaurants in the nearby Ostiense area.
It is one of the four major papal basilicas but is located outside the ancient city walls. It is quieter and less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
You can view the tomb through a glass window below the main altar, but you cannot touch or go inside the tomb area.
Spring and fall are great times to visit Rome. The weather is nice, and the crowds are smaller than in the summer.
Yes, modest dress is required. Avoid shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops.
Yes, the basilica is a major site for Christian pilgrimages. Some groups organize special visits for this purpose.
