San Sebastiano fuori le mura (St. Sebastian Outside the Walls), Rome

Built in the first half of the 4th century, this minor basilica is dedicated to Saint Sebastian, a Roman martyr from the 3rd century whose remains were moved here around 350. The location outside the Aurelian Walls gives it its full name, distinguishing it from another church of the same name on the Palatine Hill.

The basilica is also closely linked to the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian, over which it was constructed. These catacombs served as a temporary resting place for the remains of Saints Peter and Paul during the persecutions under Emperor Valerian in 258, before their relics were transferred to the basilicas named after them.

Over the centuries, the structure underwent several reconstructions. It was rebuilt after being destroyed during Saracen raids in the 9th century and saw significant changes during the 13th century when its arcade was walled in. The current building dates to the early 17th century, with major renovations under the commission of Cardinal Scipione Borghese.

Saint Sebastian was one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome, especially popular during the Seven Churches Visitation pilgrimage initiated by Saint Philip Neri in 1553. Though it was replaced on the list by another church in 2000, many pilgrims still visit due to its connection to the catacombs and its proximity to central Rome. The street linking it with the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls is aptly named "Via delle Sette Chiese" (Street of the Seven Churches).