The Basilica of San Paolo Fuori le Mura, built in the 4th century on the site of Saint Paul’s tomb, is one of the principal Christian pilgrimage sites in Rome. It is famous for its majestic architecture and mosaics that tell the life of Saint Paul. The basilica also represents a symbol of the universal Church, linked to Saint Paul’s apostolic mission. The Holy Door, like all the other Holy Doors, is a visible sign of reconciliation with God and an invitation to live a journey of penance and holiness. It holds symbolic importance as it calls Christians to spiritually renew themselves by following the example of Saint Paul, the apostle of mercy and forgiveness.
Location:
The Basilica of San Paolo Fuori le Mura is located to the southeast of Rome, on Via Ostiense, outside the walls of ancient Rome, hence the name “Fuori le Mura” (Outside the Walls). The basilica is famous for its grandeur and for being the burial site of Saint Paul.
Address:
Basilica di San Paolo Fuori le Mura, Piazza San Paolo 1, Rome.
How to get from Via Pozzuoli to San Paolo Fuori le Mura:
- Metro (Fast option):
From the nearest metro stop to Via Pozzuoli (for example, Appio or San Giovanni on the A Line), take Line A (red) towards Battistini.
Get off at Termini and transfer to Line B (blue) towards Laurentina.
Get off at Basilica San Paolo, the nearest stop to the basilica. From here, it’s just a short walk to the basilica.
Travel time: About 25-30 minutes (including the transfer). - Bus (Alternative option):
From Via Pozzuoli, you can take bus 671 or 714 to the San Paolo stop (in the Ostiense area), which is close to the basilica.
From the bus stop, the basilica is about a 5-minute walk.
Travel time: About 35-40 minutes, depending on traffic. - Taxi (Convenient option):
You can take a taxi from Via Pozzuoli to San Paolo Fuori le Mura. The journey will take about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Travel time: About 15-20 minutes by taxi.
Opening hours and access to the Holy Door:
The Basilica of San Paolo Fuori le Mura is open daily to visitors, but during the 2025 Jubilee, the Holy Door will be open to allow the faithful to pass through and receive the Jubilee indulgence.
Opening hours of the basilica:
Monday-Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (times may vary during special liturgies).
Holy Door:
The Holy Door will be accessible during the Jubilee Year, but the exact details regarding opening times will be available through official Vatican communications. Access to the door may be facilitated during specific liturgical celebrations or pilgrimages.
Reservations:
There is no need to reserve a spot to visit the Basilica of San Paolo Fuori le Mura or to pass through the Holy Door. However, reservations may be required for certain events or celebrations to guarantee a seat or to participate in special liturgies.
You can book guided tours or special tours in advance through the basilica’s official website or travel agencies.
Special Liturgies:
During the 2025 Jubilee, the Basilica of San Paolo Fuori le Mura will host special Jubilee liturgies. Some of these will include celebrations involving the Holy Door. Some of the specific liturgies that may take place include:
- Solemn Masses presided over by the Pope or a delegated cardinal.
- Liturgical processions for the opening of the Holy Door.
- Moments of communal prayer for visiting pilgrims.
The exact dates of these celebrations will be announced on the basilica’s official website and through Vatican channels.
General Information in the Area:
Near the Basilica of San Paolo Fuori le Mura, there are several useful services and points of interest:
- Piazza San Paolo: A peaceful square in front of the basilica, ideal for a rest.
- Museum of San Paolo Fuori le Mura: The museum inside the basilica offers a collection of sacred art and artifacts related to the history of the basilica and Saint Paul.
- Shops and Restaurants: The area offers a variety of restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops, especially around the San Paolo station.