Among the most evocative places in Rome, the Basilica of Saint Paul is a true treasure chest of art, history, and spirituality. Located along Via Ostiense, not far from the Tiber River, it stands on the site where, according to tradition, the Apostle Paul was buried after his martyrdom.
The current basilica is the second largest in Rome, after Saint Peter’s, and together with the other three papal basilicas (Saint John Lateran, Saint Mary Major, and Saint Peter’s in the Vatican) it is a key destination for pilgrims.
The Abbey of Saint Paul: a thousand-year-old monastic complex
Next to the basilica stands the ancient Benedictine Abbey, which continues to preserve the spiritual tradition of the Order of Saint Benedict. The monastic community, belonging to the Subiaco Cassinese Congregation, sustains the spiritual life through liturgy and hospitality inspired by the rule “Ora et labora.” The abbey has played a major historical role, not only in guarding Saint Paul’s tomb but also as a cultural and artistic center during the Middle Ages.
History and Reconstructions of the Basilica of Saint Paul
The original basilica, built under Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, was expanded over the following centuries until it reached the monumental proportions that can still be admired today. In 1823, a devastating fire almost completely destroyed it, but it was faithfully rebuilt thanks to the efforts of Pope Leo XII and the contributions of several European rulers. The golden mosaics on the façade, the magnificent Cosmatesque cloister, and the medallion gallery featuring portraits of all the popes are among its most famous attractions. If you’d like to learn more, you can visit the page dedicated to the Basilica.
Visiting the Abbey of Saint Paul
In addition to religious functions, the abbey is open to visitors and offers the opportunity to admire a rich artistic heritage. Among its most valuable works are the altarpieces and refined medieval sculptures, as well as important archaeological finds related to the Ostiense necropolis. The Cosmatesque cloister, with its inlaid marbles and geometric decorations, is a true masterpiece of 13th-century art. The surrounding gardens, maintained with monastic simplicity, invite visitors to a moment of meditation, while some on-site shops offer handcrafted goods and religious items made by the monks.
Staying Near the Abbey of Saint Paul
Those wishing to visit the basilica or attend religious celebrations can choose the San Paolo district as an ideal base: the Basilica San Paolo stop on Metro Line B is only a few minutes’ walk away. Our website offers two twin tourist accommodations, Little Blue and Little Red, perfect for short-term rentals in San Paolo (from two to thirty nights). The apartments, located close to the abbey, are fully equipped and suitable both for a weekend visit and for longer stays.
