St. Paul’s Within the Walls is an Episcopal church on Via Nazionale in Rome, known for its Victorian Gothic interior, stained glass and mosaics by Edward Coley Burne-Jones. Built in the years after Rome became the capital of unified Italy, it was the first non-Catholic church erected within the Aurelian Walls after 1870. The church is also a venue for classical concerts and opera, including performances of La Traviata. Visit for the art and architecture, or check the event schedule if you would like to hear music in the church.
A church built after Italian unification
St. Paul’s Within the Walls, also known by its Italian name, San Paolo entro le Mura, was built from 1873 to 1876. Rome became the capital of a unified Italy in 1870. Before then, papal laws had prevented non-Catholic places of worship from being built within the city walls. The church was the first non-Catholic church constructed within the Aurelian Walls after that restriction ended.
English architect George Edmund Street designed the building in the Victorian Gothic Revival style. Its northern European character sets it apart from the Baroque and Renaissance churches found elsewhere in Rome.
Mosaics and music
The mosaics are by Edward Coley Burne-Jones, a leading figure in the Pre-Raphaelite movement. Their elongated figures and rich, muted colours give the church a distinctive visual character. Stained glass brings coloured light into the interior. Together, the mosaics and windows make the church a notable place to see Pre-Raphaelite art in Italy.
The church also hosts classical music concerts and opera performances, including La Traviata and concerts by the Three Tenors. Its acoustics and historic interior form the setting for these events. Check the programme in advance if attending a performance is part of your visit.
FAQ
What makes St. Paul’s Within the Walls distinctive?
It is an Episcopal church with Victorian Gothic design and mosaics by Edward Coley Burne-Jones. It was the first non-Catholic church built within Rome’s Aurelian Walls after 1870.
Can you attend concerts at St. Paul’s Within the Walls?
Yes. The church hosts classical concerts and opera performances, including La Traviata and Three Tenors concerts. Check the schedule for upcoming events.
Is there an entrance fee to visit the church?
The available information does not specify whether entry to the church is free or paid.
