Biblical city
Rome
Rome, Italy · Italy
The capital of the empire, Rome had a church before Paul ever visited it, and he wrote his most systematic letter to believers there before arriving as a prisoner (Acts 28). Tradition places the martyrdoms of both Peter and Paul in the city.
History in Scripture
Jews from Rome heard the gospel at Pentecost; Paul wrote his greatest letter to the Roman church and later reached the city as a prisoner, teaching for two years under guard. Tradition places the martyrdoms of Peter and Paul there under Nero.
The ancient city
Capital of the empire, Rome held perhaps a million people, with a sizeable Jewish community, insulae tenements, and a state religion that demanded loyalty to Caesar — the setting for the first serious persecutions.
The site today
Rome's historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Mamertine prison, the catacombs, St Peter's Basilica and St Paul Outside the Walls are all tied to this history.
Key passages
Sources & notes
Description summarizes standard historical and archaeological reference works. Imagery is added separately and is labeled by type.