The Basilica of Saint Lawrence outside the Walls is one of the seven pilgrimage churches of Rome. It is ranked as a minor basilica and it was allegedly built on the site where Saint Lawrence was martyred.

A place of worship dedicated to Saint Lawrence was first built, on the same site, by Emperor Constantine. This small oratory was later removed and replaced with a church under Pope Pelagius II (somewhere in the 580s). The present basilica, however, dates back to the 13th century, when, under Pope Honorius III, the building of a larger place of worship was commissioned.

The Basilica of Saint Lawrence outside the Walls is especially notable for its Cosmatesque art. The intricately geometric decorations adorn the portico, the choir area and the pulpit, standing out as some of the most ancient elements of the church (they date back to the first half of the 13th century). The mosaics depict scenes focusing on the lives of Saint Lawrence and Saint Stephen, both martyred for their religious beliefs and both entombed here, in the basilica. Pope Pius IX and Pope Hilarius are also entombed here. Also worthy of attention is the 12th century campanile of the basilica, which shelters the mortal remains of Guglielmo Fieschi.

For guided visits, reservations are advisable.

Name:
Basilica of Saint Lawrence outside the Walls(Basilica Papale San Lorenzo fuori le Mura/San Lorenzo al Verano)
Address:
3, Piazzale del Verano, 00185, Rome, Italy
Telephone:
0039 06 4466184
Website:
www.basilicasanlorenzo.it