Rome Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo

The basics

One of the most important attractions on Rome’s historic Caelian Hill, the ancient Basilica of Saints John and Paul on the Caelian Hill, known colloquially as Santi Giovanni e Paolo, was extensively restored in the 12th century, and today dazzles with lavish interiors featuring striking frescos and ornate chandeliers. The true headliner, though, are the excavated ruins of the ancient Claudianum and the Case Romane beneath the church, which offer an interesting glimpse into Roman life.

Things to know before you go

• The Basilica of Saints John and Paul is one of the city’s most fascinating ancient churches, a priority for early Christian history enthusiasts along with Santo Stefano Rotondo.
• Visitors must wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter the church.
• The church is wheelchair accessible but the underground archaeological ruins are not.

How to get there

The Basilica of Saints John and Paul is located on Rome’s historic Caelian Hill, adjacent to the Palatine Hill and an easy walk from the Colosseum. The nearest metro stop is Colosseo, on line B.

When to get there

Despite it being one of the most storied and archaeologically significant churches in Rome, Santi Giovanni e Paolo is much quieter than other more famous places of worship and can be a welcome respite from the crowds at the nearby Colosseum and Forum. The church closes briefly at midday and is not open to visitors during Mass.

Rome’s Seven Historic Hills

Caelian Hill, home of Santi Giovanni e Paolo, is one of Rome’s famed seven hills that historically formed the heart of the city. The other six hills of the historic center include the Aventine Hill, Capitoline Hill, Quirinal Hill, Viminal Hill, Esquiline Hill, and Palatine Hill, where many of Rome’s most important archaeological ruins are located, including the site where Romulus is said to have founded the city.

Ways to explore

The basilica was rebuilt in the 12th century and restored in the 18th century, and today it dazzles with lavish interiors featuring striking frescoes and ornate chandeliers. The true headliner, though, is the excavated ruins beneath the church, which offer a fascinating glimpse into Roman life, in addition to telling a Christian story. You can discover them on an underground Rome tour, sometimes alongside the Basilica of San Clemente; a few general city tours also include a stop at the church.

Accessibility

The church is accessible to people in wheelchairs, but the underground remains are not.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, water bottle in summer

What to wear

Clothing that covers your shoulders and knees

Not allowed

Photos, eating, smoking

Amenities

The underground remains have a bookstore and restrooms.

Address

The Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo is located on Rome’s historic Caelian Hill, adjacent to the Palatine Hill, about 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) southeast of Piazza Navona.

Driving

With strict limitations on traffic in the historic center plus an anarchic approach to road rules, driving in Rome is not a great idea. It’s best to walk, take public transportation, use taxis or rideshares, or join a tour.

Public transportation

The nearest metro stop is Colosseo (line B), which is about a 20-minute walk. The church is within a 15-minute walk of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Circus Maximus.

Best times to visit

Visit in the morning or the afternoon as the church closes for lunch.

Best days to visit

Aim to visit midweek, as the church is closed to visitors on Sundays for Mass and is a popular venue for weddings on Saturdays.

Best months to visit

The church and the underground houses can be a respite from the summer heat.

Special events

Catholics will want to attend Mass on the first Friday in Lent, when the Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo is a station in the traditional Lenten liturgy; English-language masses are at 7am.