Aakash Joseph Keeranchira
Google
This basilica, a repository of art, culture, and faith, is among the most significant landmarks in Rome. Its origins trace back to the fifth century, when it was known as the Titulus Praxedis, and it was later reconstructed by Pope Paschal I (817–824). The new structure, which replaced the original church, drew inspiration from early Christian architecture, particularly the initial design of St. Peter’s Basilica. Pope Paschal I sought to create a fitting sanctuary within the city to house the remains of approximately 2,300 early Christian martyrs that he had transferred from cemeteries beyond the city walls. The mesmerizing mosaics in the apse immediately captivate visitors from the entrance and are unmatched in medieval Roman art for their intricate design, symbolic depth, and vibrant colors. Among the imagery drawn from the Book of Revelation are depictions of the heavenly Jerusalem, Christ encircled by Angels and Saints, and the enthroned Lamb.