About Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls

Founded in the 4th century, the Basilica was constructed over the burial site of Saint Paul by Constantine I. In 1923 the Basilica was nearly destroyed in a fire, but it has since been reconstructed with a Neo-classical design while maintaining its original structure. The Basilica features the Tomb of Saint Paul with a marble sarcophagus and a Holy Door that is only opened during a Jubilee year. Technically located outside the jurisdiction of the Vatican City, the Italian government has legally granted the Vatican full ownership of the basilica and its property.