Saint Paul Well & Church The St. Paul's Well, located in the Kızılmurat neighborhood of Tarsus in the city center, is believed to mark the birthplace and early home of St. Paul. He was born approximately 25 years before the birth of Jesus Christ and grew up in Tarsus within a family of Roman aristocrats who followed Jewish traditions and held Roman citizenship. During his youth, St. Paul received his foundational education in Tarsus, studying at one of the region’s philosophical schools. Initially, he was influenced by Pagan beliefs, but through his studies in Jerusalem, he became convinced of the divine nature of Jesus. After his preaching of Christianity in Jerusalem provoked hostility and attempts on his life, he was sent back to Tarsus, where he continued his mission. Consequently, Tarsus served as a key starting point for St. Paul’s extensive efforts to promote and establish Christianity. Within the courtyard believed to be the old residence of Saint Paul stands a historic structure called St. Paul's Well, although it is technically classified as a "well." Positioned about 200 meters northeast of the ancient roadway, this 18-meter-deep well attracts many visitors because of its spiritual importance and restoration efforts. It is regarded by many Christians as a holy pilgrimage site where drinking from the well is thought to bring healing. The Church of St. Paul, first built in the 11th to 12th century A.D. in the Ulu Cami neighborhood, underwent a major restoration in 1862. The church's ceiling features frescoes illustrating Christ, the four Evangelists, and angels. In 1992-1993, it hosted the "Saint Paul Symposium and Ceremony" organized by the Vatican. To the south of the courtyard lies the ancient basalt stone road that Saint Paul once traveled during his missions and residence in Tarsus. This well-preserved historic path provides visitors a rare chance to walk along the very route taken by this significant figure in history. If you have any questions or inquiries regarding Saint Paul Well & Church, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or simply message us via Whatsapp, and we will reply as soon as possible.