Basilica of San Lorenzo, Early Christian basilica in Milan, Italy.
The Basilica of San Lorenzo is an early Christian church in Milan, Italy, whose central structure follows an octagonal plan with four apses. Sixteen ancient Roman columns stand arranged in a row before the main facade.
Construction took place between the fourth and fifth centuries on the remains of a Roman temple dedicated to Hercules. After fires in 1071 and 1072, the structure underwent multiple reconstructions.
The Chapel of Saint Aquilino preserves fourth-century Byzantine mosaics showing Christ as lawgiver alongside pastoral scenes. These artworks rank among Milan's oldest Christian representations and reveal the transition between Roman and early Christian visual language.
Visitors may enter the church Monday through Friday between 8 and 12:30 as well as between 3 and 6:30 in the afternoon. Admission to the Chapel of Saint Aquilino requires a fee.
The Columns of Saint Lawrence originated from an ancient Roman amphitheater and were moved to their present location during the first construction phase. This reuse of Roman building elements reveals the close connection between pagan and Christian architecture in fifth-century Milan.
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