Santa Maria in Cosmedin, Medieval church in Naples, Italy.
Santa Maria in Cosmedin stands as a historically significant medieval church in Naples, featuring ancient Roman architectural elements integrated with Christian basilica design and housing notable religious artifacts within its sacred interior spaces.
Originally constructed on the site of ancient Roman temples dedicated to agricultural deities, the church was consecrated as a Christian basilica in the sixth century by Pope Gregory I, serving Greek-speaking communities throughout the medieval period.
The church's name derives from the Greek word 'kosmidion' meaning beautiful, reflecting its historical connection to Greek-speaking populations in ancient Rome and its role as a cultural bridge between Byzantine and Roman artistic traditions.
The church remains open to visitors daily from 9:30 to 18:00 with free admission, accessible via multiple bus lines including routes 23, 44, and 81, and located near other major Naples attractions for easy exploration.
The church houses the famous Bocca della Verità, an ancient Roman marble mask located in the portico, which according to legend bites the hand of anyone who tells lies while placing their hand inside its mouth.
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