St. Paul Outside the Walls, Rome

By: Charleen Mae L. Ho

As the Year of St. Paul invariably draws to a close, we take a look at one of the most popular Pauline site in the world.

The Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls (Basilica di San Paolo fuori le Mura) is one of the five major basilicas of Rome, Italy.

Originally founded by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, the Basilica di San Paolo is the burial places of Saint Paul the Apostle. It features a fascinating array of historical, religious and artistic sights to explore.
History

After his execution and burial in Rome in the 1st century AD, Saint Paul’s followers erected a shrine (cella memoriae) over the grave. The first church on the site was a small one, founded by Emperor Constantine and consecrated on November 18, 324.

In 386 Emperor Theodosius demolished the original church and began the construction of a much larger basilica. According to the inscription on the triumphal arch, it was consecrated in 390 by Siricius, and completed in 395 under Emperor Honorius.

In 883, the walls and tower encircling the church were completed. This was known as the “Johannipolis,” or “City of John” after Pope John VIII (872-882), and was built to protect the church from Lombards and Saracens.
What to See (a partial list)

* The Main Door, of bronze with inlaid silver, is modern, made 1929-1931 by Antonio Maraini after the old door had been damaged in the fire of 1823. The original door was a gift from Pope Gregory VII, set up in 1070.
* The reliefs on the door show scenes from the lives of Sts Peter and Paul. Flanking the main door are 19th-century statues of Sts Peter and Paul by Gregorio Zappalà.
* 13th-century apse mosaic, what remains of the medieval basilica, centering on Christ flanked by the Apostles Peter, Paul, Andrew and Luke. In the lower zone are Apostles carrying scrolls with the text of Gloria in excelsis. Beneath Christ is a throne with the instruments of the Passion and a cross, at the center of which is a depiction of the Teaching Christ.
* 12th-century candelabra by Vassalletto containing twisted pairs of columns enclosing a rose garden.

Source:
http://www.sacred-destinations.com
http://www.bibleplaces.com/