About a 5 minute walk from the Colosseum is this 12th century church built on top of a 4th century church and again constructed over a 2nd century Mithraic Temple and 1st century Roman house. This is probably the most interesting church in Rome because of its history.
The Basilica di San Clemente is an ancient Christian church dedicated to Pope St. Clement.
This is no ordinary church. Hidden deep two layers beneath the church, like treasure, lay the history of Rome. The first layer is the 4th century Basilica and the other is 1st century Roman building and a pagan temple for the god Mithras. These building’s existence were known for sometime, but it wasn’t until an Irish Dominican priest, Father Mullooly, started the excavation in the mid 19th century. Today, parts of the lower level still remain unexplored.
The upper church’s main attractions are the apse 12th century bronze-gold mosaic, which shows a cross at the center with twelve doves representing his apostles. The apse is absolutely stunning. The other one is the Chapel of St. Catherine of Alexandria. It features frescoes by Masolino.
The second layer is the 4th century Basilica. Its interior is well preserved, but the frescoes on the walls are faded. Large collections of early medieval paintings are housed in this lower basilica.
The fresco of the Descent of Christ into limbo was the last fresco founded by Father Mullooly in his excavation. It was discovered in 1868.
A recent discovery of what looked like a baptismal font is now thought to have been a part of a small forge for church bells.
The descent further down will take you to the 1st century Roman houses and the pagan temple of Mithras. You’ll notice the sound of running water, but don’t be alarmed. It’s just the ancient pipes and aqueducts between the walls.
Down here, you’ll find an artificial cave with stone benches on two sides and a stone altar in the middle where they used to sacrifice a bull for their god Mithras (god of the sun). There’s another room that has been identified as their probable instruction room. Only men were allowed in this room during those times. There are seven niches here, representing the seven stages of the Mithraic initiation. Additionally, there’s a faded portrait on the wall and a mosaic floor.
You might have seen a lot of churches in Italy with beautiful art paintings and historical significance, but nothing compares to The Basilica di San Clemente. This church is a layer upon layer account of Rome’s history, literally from the ground up.
Your next visit to Rome will not be complete without stopping at the Basilica di San Clemente. It’s not in the sights to see guide, but if you’re by the Colosseum it’s only five minutes away.
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