Day 56 | Church of St. Paul Outside the Wall, St. Domitilla Catacombs, and Tres Fontane
Day 56, Rome—Today we went to the Church of St. Paul Outside the Wall, the Catacombs of Domatilla, and Tre Fontane. These are three Christian related sites that we were excited to see. The Church of St. Paul Outside the Wall—This church building (located outside the old Roman wall) is said to be the location of Paul the apostle of Christ’s tomb. Of course he was buried there way before the building was built...it was basically built on top of the tomb.
The Catacombs of Domatilla—This is one of the underground burial places for Christians from the first to fifth centuries AD. It was rediscovered in 1593. In this particular catacomb, there are about 8 miles of paths that hold around 26,000 burial spots for Christians...about 2,000 remain in the burial plots. Many Christians did not have the money to purchase a normal burial plot and they didn’t believe it to be ok to be cremated, so they were buried here. This was such an interesting place to visit.
Tre Fontane or Three Fountains—This is where Paul was likely beheaded. It’s called Three Fountains because of a legend that says when Paul was beheaded his head bounced 3 times and a fountain sprung up at each bounce. Although I highly doubt this story is true, the possible location site of his death was interesting to see. Tre Fontane is also a working monastery. Although we don’t know for sure if these places are true and accurate, we do know that Paul suffered and died for the sake of Christ....and that he was ready to do it. Then Paul answered, "What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." - Acts 21:13 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. - 2 Timothy 4:6-8