Basilica di San Paolo fuori le Mura

Why Visit Basilica di San Paolo?

Basilica di San Paolo fuori le Mura (St. Paul Outside the Walls) is one of Rome's four major papal basilicas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's the second largest church in Rome after St. Peter's, built over the burial site of St. Paul the Apostle.

Unlike the crowded Vatican, this magnificent basilica offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can truly appreciate the stunning mosaics, marble columns, and sacred artistry. The beautiful Benedictine cloister is considered one of the finest in Rome.

Golden Mosaics

Stunning medieval (13th-century) apse mosaic and 19th-century facade mosaic depicting Christ with Saints Peter and Paul

St. Paul's Tomb

Venerate at the traditional burial site of the Apostle Paul, where excavations found an ancient sarcophagus consistent with the tradition

Medieval Cloister

13th-century Cosmatesque cloister with twisted columns and intricate mosaics

A Sacred History

According to tradition, St. Paul was beheaded at nearby Tre Fontane in AD 67 during Nero's persecution. His followers buried him on the Via Ostiense, and Emperor Constantine built the first basilica over his tomb in the 4th century.

The original basilica was one of the largest churches in the world until a devastating fire in 1823 destroyed most of the building. The current basilica is a meticulous reconstruction completed in 1854, preserving the original layout while adding stunning new elements.

Historical Timeline

St. Paul traditionally martyred and buried on Via Ostiense

Emperor Constantine builds first basilica

Major expansion under Emperor Theodosius

Devastating fire destroys most of the church

Rebuilt basilica consecrated by Pope Pius IX

UNESCO World Heritage Site designation

What to See

Inside the Basilica (Free)

• Papal Altar over St. Paul's tomb
• Apse mosaic with Christ and Apostles
• Portrait medallions of the Popes
• 80 massive granite columns
• Holy Door (Jubilee entrance)

Cloister & More (check pricing)

• 13th-century Cosmatesque cloister
• Twisted double columns with mosaics
• Archaeological fragments display
• Peaceful garden atmosphere
• Pinacoteca (art collection)

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

• • Basilica: Daily 7:00 AM - 6:30 PM
• • Cloister: Daily 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
• • Visitor movement may be restricted during major liturgies

Getting There

• • Metro B: Basilica San Paolo station
• • Bus: 23, 769, 792
• • Tram: 3
• • About 2 km south of center

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the cloister

Consequence: You miss the most beautiful Cosmatesque masterpiece in Rome.

Solution: Pay the small entrance fee (check official pricing) — it takes 15 minutes and is unforgettable.

Wearing shorts or tank tops

Consequence: You'll be turned away at the door — strict dress code enforced.

Solution: Cover shoulders and knees; bring a scarf as backup.

Visiting during papal mass

Consequence: Tourist access is restricted and parts may be closed.

Solution: Check the Vatican calendar and avoid major liturgical days.

Rushing through in 20 minutes

Consequence: You miss the Pope portraits, papal altar details, and confession chapels.

Solution: Plan 1-2 hours minimum to absorb the scale and art.

Not using Metro B

Consequence: Buses and walking from the center waste 30+ minutes.

Solution: Take Metro B to 'Basilica San Paolo' — direct from Termini in 15 min.

Assuming the published hours apply on every feast day

Consequence: Liturgies can restrict visitor access.

Solution: Confirm hours and the liturgical schedule on the official basilica site before visiting on feast days.

Insider Tips

Spot the next Pope

A popular legend says when the empty mosaic medallions of future Popes run out, the world ends — find them above the columns.

Check the liturgical schedule

The Benedictine monks sometimes sing Gregorian chant during mass — check the current liturgical schedule for times.

Combine with Centrale Montemartini

The unique 'sculptures in a power plant' museum is one Metro stop away (Garbatella).

Look up at the alabaster windows

Translucent alabaster panels (gift from King Fuad of Egypt) glow gold in afternoon light — best photo conditions.

Where to Stay Nearby

The Ostiense and Testaccio neighborhoods offer authentic Roman atmosphere, great food markets, and easy Metro B access to both the basilica and the historic center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Basilica di San Paolo fuori le Mura free to visit?

Yes, entry to the basilica is free. However, there's a small fee (check the official site for current pricing, around €4 / €3 reduced) to visit the beautiful medieval cloister, which is highly recommended.

Why is it called 'fuori le mura' (outside the walls)?

The basilica was built outside Rome's ancient Aurelian Walls, on the Via Ostiense where St. Paul was believed to be buried after his traditional martyrdom in AD 67.

Is St. Paul actually buried at this basilica?

Excavations beneath the altar uncovered an ancient sarcophagus and material considered consistent with the traditional burial of St. Paul, though his personal identity has not been conclusively established.

Is the basilica wheelchair accessible?

Step-free access is available to the basilica and cloister; contact staff for the appropriate entrance. The cloister also has accessible entrances. Staff are helpful with any special needs.

Related Attractions

Basilica of St. Agnes

Free 7th-century pilgrimage church with Byzantine mosaics, near ticketed catacombs

Explore

Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano

Rome's official cathedral—the Pope's seat since 324 AD

Explore

Museum of the Cathedral of Anagni

The 'Sistine Chapel of the Middle Ages'—13th-century crypt frescoes

Explore

Chiesa del Gesù

Mother church of the Jesuits with stunning ceiling fresco

Explore

Museo delle Mura

Free museum inside Porta San Sebastiano—walk atop the ancient Aurelian Walls

Explore

Baths of Caracalla

Ancient Rome's most magnificent public baths with towering ruins

Explore