Basilica di Santa Prassede

Overview

hidden in an unassuming side street right near the massive Santa Maria Maggiore, the 9th-century Basilica di Santa Prassede is a magnificent, Byzantine jewel box bursting with some of the finest, vivid medieval mosaics in Rome.

Highlights

• The Chapel of San Zeno: known as the "Garden of Paradise." It is an small, dark chapel encrusted floor-to-ceiling in shimmering, breathtaking gold-glass mosaics dating to 820 AD.
• The Apse Mosaics: A massive, vibrant apocalyptic vision in the main altar depicting Christ flanked by massive saints arrayed against a striking blue and gold sky.
• The Scourging Pillar: Within the San Zeno chapel sits an incredibly sacred section of a massive marble column reputed to be the exact pillar Jesus was tied to while being notably flogged before his crucifixion.

History

The current church was built by Pope Paschal I around 822 AD, dedicating it to Saint Praxedes, a brave early Roman Christian who according to tradition hid persecuted Christians and dangerously collected the spilled blood of martyrs in a sponge. The Pope brought in brilliant master mosaicists from the Byzantine Empire to decorate it.

Visitor Tips

• The Chapel: The Chapel of San Zeno requires coins to illuminate. Once lit, the massive gold tiles reflect the light, making the tiny room glow like a massive treasure chest.
• Pacing: It is beautifully, empty most of the time, providing a intimate, moving experience of early Christian art.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.