Santa Maria in Turri, Medieval church in Rome, Vatican City
Santa Maria in Turri was a medieval church positioned next to the outer atrium of the ancient Saint Peter's Basilica, displaying an intricate mosaic on its facade depicting Christ's Ascension. The building occupied a central location in this sacred area and formed part of the architectural landscape surrounding the basilica.
The church was founded in 701 and held importance during imperial coronations when rulers made ceremonial promises inside. It was badly damaged in 1155 during an attack and later fell into disrepair until it was taken down during the rebuilding of Saint Peter's Basilica. The mosaic was placed on the East wall of Santa Maria in Turri. On the West wall was the mosaic of Giotto di Bondone, La Navicella, a piece of art that is no longer there. When pilgrims left the Basilica of Saint Peter, they crossed the front area facing the Navicella mosaic.
The church served as a distribution center for aid to people in need living near the old Saint Peter's Basilica. It functioned as a place where the community could find assistance and care.
The church occupied a strategic location near the entrance to Saint Peter's Basilica's outer courtyard. Since the building no longer exists, visitors can explore its former site and understand its role within the historical layout of the sacred area.
The intricate mosaic on the facade depicting Christ's Ascension was a remarkable work of art on a lesser-known structure near the basilica. This artistic decoration survives today only in historical records and descriptions.
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