Saint Paul’s is no ordinary well. This still-serviceable water well, in the old quarters of Tarsus, stands as a symbol of the rich Christian history woven into the fabric of this ancient land. Turkey, being one of the earliest cradles of Christianity, holds a treasure trove of historical and religious sites that is yet to be discovered by Western pilgrims. Among them, sure, Saint Paul’s Well.
Paul, surely one of the most (if not the most) influential figures in early Christianity, was born in Tarsus around 5-10 CE. Originally named Saul (Saul of Tarsus), he zealously persecuted early Christians until a legendary, dramatic encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus led to his conversion –according to the famed Book of Acts. As Saint Paul, he became a key missionary, spreading Jesus’ teachings beyond the Jewish community. His numerous epistles, forming a significant part of the Christian New Testament, emphasized universalizing Christ’s message and the inclusion of Gentiles in the faith. Paul’s theological insights, missionary journeys, and foundational role in shaping early Christian doctrine make him a central and enduring figure in the history of Christianity. Tarsus, Paul’s birthplace, is naturally an integral part of this narrative.
Traditionally believed to have belonged to Saint Paul, the well is thus steeped in historical and spiritual significance. According to local lore, this well was once part of Paul’s residence, making it a sacred relic for pilgrims retracing the footsteps of the apostle. Numerous pilgrimage routes, all of them related to the apostle to the Gentiles, naturally and necessarily wind through Tarsus. Pilgrims coming to this revered place cannot but stumble upon the roots of their own religious, spiritual, and cultural traditions.
The well itself is more than a valuable relic; it represents a source of spiritual nourishment. Pilgrims and visitors can still draw and drink from its waters, physically and symbolically linking themselves to the biblical narrative. The well’s proximity to the relatively recently unearthed remains of Saint Paul’s alleged home adds a layer of authenticity to the experience, allowing pilgrims to envision some of the apostle’s early, daily life.
The pilgrimage path that encompasses Saint Paul’s Well also weaves through the historical streets of Tarsus, creating a journey that brings together different eras. Pilgrims not only explore the tangible remnants of the apostle’s life but can also immerse themselves in the cultural and religious tapestry of Turkey, a nation that played a pivotal role in shaping early Christianity.
