Major Basilica of St Paul Tour – One of the Four Major Basilicas and Holy Doors of Rome
IMPORTANT: Pilgrims wishing to pass through the Holy Doors during the Jubilee Year must register and book time slots here.
Our Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls Tour takes place at the jaw-dropping Basilica built over the body of St Paul – one of the four Major basilicas of Rome and one of mind-blowing historical and religious significance.
The Basilica of St Paul (Basilica di San Paolo Fuori le Mura) is a must-see pilgrim experience for those on pilgrimage to Rome, especially during the Jubilee Year. This tour explains the history of how the body of St Paul came to be placed here, the history of the Basilica built over his body and the fascinating rediscovery and scientific verification of his remains in the 21st century.
One of the most ancient Basilicas of Rome, the importance of the Basilica of St Paul was recognised in the 14th century with its designation as a Major Basilica (one of only four in the world) and as such, the location of a Holy Door. Pilgrims entering the Basilica through the Holy Door in a Jubilee Year may avail themselves of the ancient indulgence under the usual conditions.
For those pilgrims who wish to enter the Holy Doors of all four of the Major Basilicas in one day, then you may instead consider our Holy Doors Tour.
If however, you wish to do each Basilica in isolation, then we offer stand-alone tours of around 1 hour each allowing a more flexible approach: the Cathedral of St John Lateran, the Basilica of St Mary Major and the Basilica of St Peter.
This fascinating Basilica of St Paul Tour explains:
- The life and martyrdom of St Paul
- The construction of the Basilica and major events in its history
- The chains that bound St Paul during his imprisonment in Rome
- The sarcophagus and remains of St Paul
- The monastic link with St Paul
- The symbolism of the spectacular mosaics
Read the Itinerary tab above to learn how important this tour is for religious pilgrims to Rome. For those particularly interested in the life of St Paul, you may also be interested in our Saints Peter and Paul Tour.
| MEETING POINT | Next to the statue of St Paul in the courtyard. Please check carefully the map links below which show the location of the meeting point accurate to 3 square metres. | ||||
| FINISHING LOCATION | Inside the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls | ||||
| DEPARTURE TIME | 10:00am Tuesdays & Thursdays | ||||
| DURATION | Approx. 1 hour | ||||
| DRESS CODE | Comfortable clothing, covering shoulders and knees | ||||
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Additional information
| Ticket Type | Adult (16+), Student ID, Child (under 16) |
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The History
We begin our Basilica of St Paul Holy Door tour in front of the stunning façade of the Basilica in its atrium of paradise, where your expert guide will tell you about the fascinating life and death of St Paul.
The Holy Door
We then make our way to the Holy Door where your guide will explain the tradition and history of the Door and its practical purpose.
Architecture
Next we’ll enter the Basilica where you will be mesmerised by the majestic architecture and grandeur of the nave, with a focus on the symbolism of the stunning arch mosaics.
Relics of St Paul
You will then be shown the reliquary containing the chains that bound St Paul in Rome before peering at the sarcophagus that contains his body, recently rediscovered and scientifically analysed. Pilgrims will have the chance to pray for a moment before his tomb.
The Apse Mosaics
Journeying past the high altar, your guide will explain the fascinating theological symbolism of the elaborate mosaics of the apse, whilst also pointing out the medallion mosaics and their fascinating yet spooky prophesy.
The Monastic Links
Finally your guide will help you explore the features and theology of the small side chapels, including a miraculous crucifix, and understand the association of St Paul and St Stephen with monasticism.
Next to the statue of St Paul in the quad. Please check carefully the map links below which show the location of the meeting point accurate to 3 square metres.
Tour Reviews
Lovely Canadian guy took us on this short tour. we heard and learnt a lot of history in a short space of time. He knows his Bible much better than I and actually made you feel more inquisitive as to history behind the scenes. Recommend him, and better still i was looking to where to find him and he found us first!!
We were the only ones who had booked a guide in the morning and had Tom all to ourselves. He is a fantastically skilled guide who posted about all relevant material about the Basilica and also answered questions and shared personal thoughts about the content with us. We are very satisfied and highly recommend this tour 👌👏😊
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