Saint Paul Outside the Walls
The Founder of Christianity
The Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls is located between the Tiber and the ancient Via Ostiense. It is therefore part of the extraterritorial property of the Holy See. Saint Paul of Tarsus is considered the founder of the Christian religion. The circumstances of his death are not documented. However, most historians assume that he died a martyr's death by beheading with a sword during the last years of Emperor Nero's reign (54–68 AD), which is why the sword became his attribute.
Construction history
The first church on the site where the saint was supposedly executed was built by Emperor Constantine the Great and consecrated by Pope Sylvester I in 324 AD. Over the centuries, the basilica was destroyed and rebuilt several times. Outstanding restoration work was carried out as early as the 5th century under Pope Leo I. The present building was constructed in the 19th century, mainly under the architect Luigi Poletti. Pope Gregory XVI consecrated the basilica in 1840.
Notable works of art
Particularly noteworthy features of the interior include the canopy over the high altar, the 13th-century apse mosaic depicting Christ, and the gallery with portraits of all previous popes, beginning with Saint Peter, which adorns the nave. In front of the basilica stands an imposing statue of Saint Paul with a sword and a book.
Facts
- Latin name: Basilica Sancti Pauli extra mœnia
- Location: Piazzale San Paolo, Rome
- Built: 4th century AD – 19th century
- Consecrated: 1840 (by Pope Gregory XVI)
- Dedication: Saint Paul of Tarsus
- Important works of art: Apsis mosaic depicting Christ, portraits of all popes to date
Saint Paul Outside the Walls Folding Card
This unique souvenir note from the Anno Santo Series is dedicated to Saint Paul 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 statue of Saint Benedict of Nursia. Under UV light, one of the relief panels from the Holy Door in St. Peter's Basilica appears on each side. The notes in the Anno Santo Series are available in individual folding cards as well as in a multi-page booklet featuring the entire series.
20,000 Lire
Obverse: Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in Rome, statue of Saint Paul, stylized shell
Reverse: Statue of Saint Benedict of Nursia, signature of Pope Boniface VIII, stylized dove
| Dimensions: 145 x 70 mm (5.71 x 2.76 in) Material: Paper |
