A sacred monument where art, faith, and history embrace the soul of Reggio Calabria.

A Beacon of Culture and Spirit Overlooking the City

High on a southern hill of Reggio Calabria, the Sanctuary of Saint Paul alla Rotonda blends sacred tradition with timeless beauty. Built in 1932 to honor Saint Paul’s passage through the city, it stands as one of the most symbolic religious sites in Calabria.

The church’s role goes beyond spirituality. It celebrates culture, memory, and identity. Its Romanesque façade and interior shine with over 500 square meters of mosaics. These vivid works depict a striking procession of historical and spiritual icons.

On the front, the mosaics are divided into three thematic panels. They feature figures such as Virgil, Cicero, and Seneca, alongside Saint Augustine, Saint Luke, and Saint Paul. In addition, you’ll find Aristotle, Socrates, Plato, Julius Caesar, and Alexander the Great. These portraits reflect the union between classical wisdom and Christian faith.

Behind the sanctuary lies a hidden jewel—the Piccolo Museo San Paolo. Founded by Monsignor Gangemi, it houses a remarkable collection of sacred art. The museum displays over 180 Greek, Balkan, and Russian icons, along with silver and ivory objects. Moreover, its gallery includes more than 100 paintings from the 14th to 19th centuries. Among them is a rare masterpiece: Saint Michael Slaying the Dragon by Antonello da Messina.