Saint Paul Well & Church

Saint Paul Well & Church

St. Paul's Well, situated in Tarsus' Kızılmurat quarter in the city center, is believed to have been the birthplace and childhood home of St. Paul. He was born roughly 25 years before Jesus Christ and lived in Tarsus with his family, who were Roman aristocrats with Jewish beliefs and Roman citizenship.

As a young man, St. Paul received his primary education in Tarsus as a student of one of the area's philosophy schools. Though he was initially influenced by Paganism, he eventually became convinced of Jesus’ divinity during his studies in Jerusalem, where he continued to develop his ideas and thoughts. After his teaching of Christianity in Jerusalem angered those who sought to kill him, he was taken to Tarsus, where he continued to teach. As such, Tarsus is one of the places from which St. Paul set out on his long journey to spread and institutionalize Christianity.

Saint Paul Well & Church

The courtyard of what is believed to be the former home of Saint Paul houses a historical structure known as St. Paul's Well, despite its classification as a "well." Located approximately 200 meters northeast of the ancient street, this 18-meter-deep well has become a popular destination for visitors due to its religious significance and restoration. Many Christians view it as a sacred pilgrimage site where they can drink from the well and receive healing.

The Church of St. Paul, originally constructed in the 11th-12th century A.D. in the Ulu Cami quarter, underwent a significant renovation in 1862. The church's frescoes depict Christ and the four Evangelists with angels on the roof. In 1992-1993, it hosted the "Saint Paul Symposium and Ceremony" organized by the Vatican.

South of the courtyard, one can still find the ancient basalt stone road that Saint Paul traveled on his journeys and during his time living in Tarsus. This well-preserved landmark offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and walk in the footsteps of history.