The Chapel of Saint Paul

The Bab Kisan Church, also known as the Chapel of Saint Paul, is a Greek Catholic chapel in Damascus built from the stones of the ancient Bab Kisan Gate, the southeastern entrance to the Old City dating back to the Roman era. Its Christian significance is rooted in the dramatic episode recorded in the New Testament, when St. Paul—newly converted to Christianity—was lowered in a basket through a window in the city wall to escape persecution (Acts 9:23–25; 2 Corinthians 11:32–33). By incorporating the very stones of the gate linked to this event, the church stands as both a historical monument and a living place of pilgrimage, symbolizing Damascus’s role as one of the earliest centers of Christian faith. It commemorates not only Paul’s escape but also the city’s enduring connection to the spread of Christianity across the ancient world. Over the centuries, the chapel has been restored and maintained, preserving its blend of Roman, Byzantine, and local architectural influences. Today, it welcomes pilgrims and visitors alike, offering a tangible link to the formative years of the Church. Its quiet interior and historic walls invite reflection on the courage, faith, and transformative journey of the Apostle Paul.