Santa Costanza, an ancient church of Rome, depicts more than a building. Representing an early treasure of Italy, this church illustrates a great masterpiece of architecture. A circular structure outside the walls of ancient Rome, Via Nomentana, was built as a mausoleum for Constantina, daughter of Constantine I (Poetschke 52). The ambulatory is surrounded by a central dome and the building is constructed as a tholos related design. The structure has survived stability in its original form, but despite the damage it has undergone over the past centuries, it stands in great condition. However, Santa Costanza is more than its prestigious mosaics and centralized planning; it stands as a prime example of early Christian architecture.
According to a historical view, the mausoleum was built for commemorating Constantina, daughter of Constantine I. Therefore, the mausoleum is named after her, but as her name appeared differently, Costanza (Poetschke 52). Accounts such as the Liber Pontificalis documents that the emperor built the funerary corridor on the request of his daughter (Loomis 60). Earlier details also report …show more content…
To add on, the mosaics in Santa Costanza have some of the most meaningful and graceful designs. First, the image of Christ; He appears as a natural character, but very compelling. He wears robes, not as appealing as others, but can still suggest strong will. His tunic is mixed with purple and gold, which may be interpreted as holy power but also as royalty with the color purple. Gold can also suggest a connection to the Roman emperor. In the apse, one of the disciples approaches Christ in supplication, as one would with royalty. This concept can be prevalent in Christian architecture that Christ is the Almighty and a very powerful figure in this type of
According to a historical view, the mausoleum was built for commemorating Constantina, daughter of Constantine I. Therefore, the mausoleum is named after her, but as her name appeared differently, Costanza (Poetschke 52). Accounts such as the Liber Pontificalis documents that the emperor built the funerary corridor on the request of his daughter (Loomis 60). Earlier details also report …show more content…
To add on, the mosaics in Santa Costanza have some of the most meaningful and graceful designs. First, the image of Christ; He appears as a natural character, but very compelling. He wears robes, not as appealing as others, but can still suggest strong will. His tunic is mixed with purple and gold, which may be interpreted as holy power but also as royalty with the color purple. Gold can also suggest a connection to the Roman emperor. In the apse, one of the disciples approaches Christ in supplication, as one would with royalty. This concept can be prevalent in Christian architecture that Christ is the Almighty and a very powerful figure in this type of