Porta San Paolo: A Gateway to Rome's Rich History
Discover the historical significance of Porta San Paolo, an ancient gate in Rome that offers a glimpse into the city's storied past.
Porta San Paolo stands as a magnificent testament to Rome's illustrious past. This historic gate, built in the early 3rd century AD, originally served as a crucial access point to the ancient city, linking it with the Via Ostiense. As you approach the gate, you'll be mesmerized by its imposing structure, which features a blend of ancient Roman engineering and architectural elegance. The surrounding area is equally captivating, with lush greenery and remnants of the ancient walls that once fortified the city, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. For history enthusiasts, Porta San Paolo is not just a gate; it is a portal to the stories of Roman life. It was here that travelers and traders once entered the bustling heart of Rome, and today, it serves as a reminder of the city's long-standing significance in the annals of history. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Pyramid of Cestius, a striking ancient monument that adds to the allure of this historic site. The juxtaposition of the gate and the pyramid makes for an unforgettable visual experience. Visiting Porta San Paolo is an opportunity to connect with the layers of history that define Rome. Whether you're an avid photographer, a history buff, or simply looking to enjoy a picturesque spot in the Eternal City, this location has something to offer. The gate's proximity to various other attractions makes it an ideal starting point for your Roman adventure, ensuring that you capture the essence of Rome’s rich heritage in a single visit.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Don't forget your camera; the architecture and surrounding scenery are perfect for photos.
- Take a guided tour to learn more about the historical significance of the gate and its surroundings.
- Pair your visit with a trip to the nearby Pyramid of Cestius for a full historical experience.
A brief summary to Porta San Paolo
- P.za Ostiense, Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, 00154, IT
- +39065743193
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Porta San Paolo from anywhere in Lazio, take the A90 (GRA) ring road. Use the exit for Via Cristoforo Colombo (Exit 26) towards Roma Centro. Follow the signs for Roma Centro and continue onto Via Cristoforo Colombo. As you approach the city center, look for signs directing you to P.za Ostiense. There is limited street parking available, so consider using a paid parking garage nearby, which typically costs around €2-€4 per hour.
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Train
To reach Porta San Paolo via train, head to the nearest train station in your area and take a regional train towards Roma Ostiense station. Once you arrive at Roma Ostiense, exit the station and walk towards P.za Ostiense, which is just a short 5-minute walk away. Be aware that train tickets cost around €5-€10 depending on your starting point, and you may need to validate your ticket before boarding.
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Bus
If you prefer to travel by bus, check the local bus services in your area to see if there is a direct route to Roma. Many buses heading to the city center will stop near P.za Ostiense. Once you arrive at the bus stop, follow the signs to P.za Ostiense, which is approximately a 5-10 minute walk. Bus tickets usually cost around €1.50 and are valid for 90 minutes on most buses.
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Metro
For those using the metro, find the nearest metro station and take Line B (blue line) towards Laurentina. Get off at the Piramide station. From there, you can either walk to P.za Ostiense, which is around a 10-minute walk, or you can take bus line 713 for a couple of stops. Metro tickets cost €1.50 and are valid for 100 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Porta San Paolo
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Piazza di Porta San Paolo
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Pyramid of Caius Cestius
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Piazzale Ostiense
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Non-Catholic Cemetery
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Fontana di Acea - Piazzale Ostiense
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Piazza Gian Lorenzo Bernini
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Rione San Saba
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Teatro di Documenti
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Rome War Cemetery
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Monte Testaccio
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Fontana delle Anfore (Fountain of the Amphoras)
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Piazza Testaccio
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circo massimo
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Monte Testaccio (detto "Monte dei cocci")
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Testaccio Estate
Landmarks nearby to Porta San Paolo
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Case Romane del Celio
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Palatine Hill
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Colosseo view point
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Parco archeologico del Colosseo
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Piazza del Colosseo
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House of the Vestals
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Fontana di Santa Maria in Trastevere
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Fontana del Prigione in Trastevere
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Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere
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Porta Latina
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Colosseum
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Roman Forum
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Base of the Statue of Nero
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Temple of Vespasian and Titus
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Senatorial Palace