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Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls

Name: Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls
Rating: 4.8

4.8 ·

Step into one of Rome's grandest basilicas, built over Saint Paul's traditional burial site. Trace the unbroken ring of papal portrait mosaics circling the nave, then wander the quiet Cosmatesque cloister away from the crowds.

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Reasons to go

Portrait medallions of every pope in history ring the nave, with tradition holding that the world will end when the space runs out
Rebuilt after a major fire in 1823 largely following its original ancient plan
The cloister features twisted Cosmatesque columns and is often skipped by visitors who don't go beyond the main nave

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Full description

Rebuilt after a devastating 1823 fire largely to its ancient plan, the basilica houses medallion portraits of every pope in history running around the nave — tradition holds that when the space runs out, the world will end. Its sheer size rivals St.

Peter's, yet its location outside the old city walls keeps visitor numbers far lower, making it one of the more peaceful major basilicas to visit. The tranquil cloister, with its twisted Cosmatesque columns, is a highlight often missed by visitors who don't venture past the main nave.

It's a strong pick for travelers who want the grandeur of Rome's great basilicas without the St. Peter's crowds.

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Address

Piazzale San Paolo, 1, 00146 Roma RM, Italy · San Paolo

Website

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Hours

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Booking

Walk-in

Duration

45 min

Best time

early morning, morning, lunchtime, afternoon or early evening

Intensity

Moderate walking

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Good to know

Take the Metro (Basilica San Paolo stop) rather than walking, since it sits outside the historic center
don't skip the peaceful cloister just off the main basilica
it's notably quieter than St. Peter's, making it a good early-morning or midday option.

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Reviews

This church is one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. Legend has it that when the spaces for the popes are all filled, the world ends. I learned that by paying for the guided tour, which you should also do. Remember, you have to have shoulders and knees covered to enter. Absolutely worth it.

Terminal E Travel Club

1/5

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