Introduction of Basilica Papale di San Paolo Fuori le Mura (Basilica of Saint Paul)

 

I was only aware of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City and a few other nearby churches, but I encountered numerous other remarkable churches through guided tours. I felt ashamed of how little I knew despite being a believer.

Facade of the Papal Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. Saint Paul is holding a sword.

1. Saint Paul

To summarize, Saint Paul was an apostle born around 5–6 BC and was martyred between AD 64 and 67 under the persecution of Emperor Nero.

He was a Pharisee and a devout follower of Judaism, yet he also held Roman citizenship. This combination made him a strong candidate for persecuting Christians. Later, he used his Roman citizenship to escape dangerous situations. Initially, he persecuted Christians, but while traveling to Damascus, he saw a brilliant light and heard the voice of the resurrected Jesus. This event led to his conversion, and he dedicated his life to spreading Christianity.

Paul undertook three missionary journeys, recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. Eventually, he was arrested while evangelizing in Rome and was executed by beheading. The symbol of Saint Paul is a sword, representing his martyrdom by decapitation. His hand gesture, with three fingers extended, symbolizes Jesus Christ.

2. Why is the Basilica of Saint Paul Located Outside Rome? / Why is it Called "Saint Paul Outside the Walls"?

The Basilica of Saint Paul is located outside Vatican City, on the outskirts of Rome.

During the early Roman Empire, city walls were built for defense, and significant buildings and churches were typically constructed within these walls. However, Saint Paul's Basilica was built on the tomb of Saint Paul, located outside the Aurelian Walls.

To distinguish it from other basilicas, it was given the designation "Outside the Walls" (Fuori le Mura), which is why it is commonly referred to as "Saint Paul Outside the Walls."

3. The Present State of the Basilica of Saint Paul

Saint Paul's Basilica was expanded during the reign of Emperor Theodosius. During this expansion, the original church, which was supposed to face Jerusalem, had to be reoriented due to structural changes, leading to a modification of the rules. As a result, the church now faces north.

In the early 1800s, a fire broke out during the reign of Pope Pius VII, causing significant damage. The basilica was later rebuilt during the papacy of Pope Leo XII, and its current form closely resembles the original structure.

4. The Features of Saint Paul's Basilica

• Tomb of Saint Paul: The basilica houses Saint Paul's tomb, which can be seen beneath the main altar.

• The Second Largest Church in Rome: Although the exterior might not seem very large, it is the second-largest church in Rome.

• Grand Interior Structure: The five majestic aisles create an overwhelming atmosphere.

• Golden Mosaics & Papal Portraits: The walls are beautifully decorated with golden mosaics and portraits of all the popes. A light is illuminated on the portrait of the current living pope.

• The Holy Door: This is a special door opened during Jubilee Years (every 25 years). Pilgrims can pass through it while praying to receive a plenary indulgence. Since 2025 is a Jubilee Year, the Holy Door is currently open.

• Managed by the Benedictine Order: The Order of Saint Benedict (OSB) manages and operates the basilica. Visitors can purchase honey and beer made directly by the Benedictine monks at the gift shop.
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  This Holy Door of the basilica is opened only during the plenary indulgence period.
  
  

The basilica's magnificent interior features portraits of the past popes above the columns on both sides.

A light is illuminated on the portrait of the current pope.

The passage leading to the tomb of Saint Paul in front of the altar and the mosaic behind the altar are also well known.

The Tomb of Saint Paul the Apostle