Paleochristian basilica of Son Bou, Early Christian basilica in Son Bou, Spain.
The Paleochristian basilica of Son Bou is an early Christian sanctuary with a rectangular floor plan divided into three naves separated by columns. The building terminates at its eastern end with a central apse, while numerous burial chambers from different periods remain visible around the structure.
The sanctuary was founded in late antiquity and served believers as a gathering place for roughly two centuries. A devastating fire in the 18th century damaged the structure significantly and marked the decline of the original building.
The four-leaf clover baptismal font shows how believers practiced their faith through religious rites in this early period. The graves positioned along the side naves reveal a community that chose to bury their dead close to their sacred space.
The site is partially excavated and walkable with ruins of an underground passage system and preserved wall segments visible. When visiting, be prepared to explore an archaeological site where remains are visible both above and below ground level.
A specialized entrance vestibule was reserved exclusively for catechumens, those not yet baptized who were barred from the main service. This separate area reveals how carefully early Christians organized their liturgical practices.
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