St Paul Outside the Walls: Apse Mosaic

Map

Apse

---

The monumental mosaic in the apse of the church of San Paolo fuori le Mura (St Paul Outside the Walls) was commissioned by Pope Honorius III (r.  1216-27) and executed (circa 1220) by Venetian craftsmen sent by Doge Pietro Ziani (r. 1205-29). 

The mosaic was largely remade after the disastrous fire (July, 1823), which destroyed most of the ancient church. 

Christ, who is depicted blessing in the Greek manner, is flanked by St Peter, St Andrew, St Paul and St Luke. A tiny Pope Honorius (very difficult to make out from the ground) crouches by the right foot of Christ. 

---

Apse mosaic

Image of Pope Honorius III, apse mosaic, San Paolo fuori le Mura