Santa Pudenziana, Minor basilica and cardinal title in Monti, Italy.
Santa Pudenziana is a basilica in Rome with roots extending to the fourth century, built atop a Roman house that earlier served the community for centuries. Inside, the space features a notable apse mosaic and architectural elements that mark the transition between ancient Roman and early Christian periods.
The church originated in the fourth century, built on the foundation of a Roman home with archaeological traces reaching back to Republican times. Later modifications introduced the apse mosaic in the fifth century, which defined the spiritual and artistic character of the space.
The apse displays a 5th-century mosaic showing Christ surrounded by apostles dressed as Roman senators, reflecting how early Christians adapted Roman visual language for their faith. The choice of senatorial robes underscores the blend of pagan imagery and Christian meaning.
Entry is gained through wrought-iron gates that lead to a courtyard, where steps descend toward the church structure below street level. The space accommodates both worshippers and visitors interested in viewing the art and archaeology on display.
Beneath the current basilica lie remnants of an ancient Roman bath facility, incorporated directly into the building's foundation and visible to visitors today. This archaeological feature reveals how early church builders worked with existing Roman structures rather than starting from scratch.
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