Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls
Ancient place of worship
The Papal Basilica of Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls was already a popular pilgrimage destination in ancient times. It is located between the ancient Via Tiburtina and Campo Verano, Rome's largest cemetery.
Information about the first church on this site is disputed. The current structure dates back to Pope Pelagius II in the 6th century. In order to provide sufficient space for the many pilgrims, Pope Honorius III had the old apse demolished in the 13th century and the present nave added. He was also responsible for the remarkable Cosmatesque floor. The simple but impressive transept with its massive columns and round arches has clear Byzantine features. The architect Virginio Vespignani made a further contribution to its present appearance in the 19th century.
Saint Lawrence
Saint Lawrence lived in the 3rd century AD and was a deacon in Rome. During the persecution of Christians under Emperor Valerian, he was tortured in 258 to reveal the treasures of the Church. He ultimately refused and died a martyr's death on a red-hot gridiron, which is now his attribute.
Important burials
In addition to St. Lawrence, numerous other saints are buried in the basilica, including Pope Pius IX and Saint Stephen. The tomb of Cardinal Guglielmo Fieschi is of outstanding artistic importance. He was buried in 1256 in an ancient sarcophagus adorned with a relief depicting a pagan wedding feast.
Facts
- Latin name: Basilica Sancti Laurentii extra muros
- Location: Piazzale del Verano, Rome
- Built: 6th century AD – 13th century
- Dedication: Saint Lawrence, Saint Stephen, Saint Justin, the Pope, Saint Zosimus, Pope Sixtus III, Pope Hilarius, Pope Pius IX
Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls Folding Card
This unique souvenir note from the Anno Santo Series is dedicated to Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls. It is printed on genuine security paper and features a gold foil patch, UV ink and haptic elements. The front side depicts the basilica, while the back side shows a sculpture of Saint Lawrence. Under UV light, one of the relief panels from the Holy Door in St. Peter's Basilica appears on each side. All notes in the Anno Santo Series are available in individual folding cards as well as in a multi-page booklet featuring the entire series.
2,000 Lire
Obverse: Papal Basilica of Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls in Rome, stylized shell
Reverse: Statue of Saint Lawrence, relief from the sarcophagus of Cardinal Guglielmo Fieschi, signature of Pope Boniface VIII, stylized dove
| Dimensions: 145 x 70 mm (5.71 x 2.76 in) Material: Paper |
