Basilica of St Sebastian Outside the Walls, Rome, Italy Verified listing

Basilica of St Sebastian Outside the Walls, Rome, Italy

San Sebastiano fuori le Mura (Saint Sebastian Outside the Walls), also known as San Sebastiano ad Catacumbas (Saint Sebastian at the Catacombs), is a significant basilica in central Rome. Until the Great Jubilee of 2000, it was part of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome. Many pilgrims still visit it today, drawn by its rich history and the nearby Catacombs.

The basilica sits above one of Rome’s oldest Christian cemeteries, the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian, which date back to the 3rd century. These catacombs offer a glimpse into early Christian burial practices and the Church’s history. The basilica itself houses important relics, including the remains of Saint Sebastian, a revered early Christian martyr.

In the early 20th century, Santuario della Madonna del Divino Amore replaced San Sebastiano on the list of Pilgrim Churches. This change was due to the Santuario’s location farther from the city center. Nevertheless, many pilgrims still visit San Sebastiano for its spiritual and historical significance.

The basilica’s serene atmosphere, combined with its connection to early Christianity, makes it an essential site for visitors. Whether for religious devotion or historical interest, San Sebastiano remains an enduring part of Rome’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

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