SHARRYLAND
Basilica of St. Anastasia on the Palatine Hill
One of the oldest churches in Rome, located on the slopes of the Palatine Hill
Where is
What is it and where is the Basilica of Sant'Anastasia al Palatino
At the foot of Mount Palatine, near Rome's Circus Maximus, stands the Basilica of St. Anastasia al Palatino, one of the city's oldest churches. To look at it, however, it looks more recent: the facade is Baroque, while the interior is 18th-century. The interior itself is marvelous, with the white nave set against a richly colored ceiling: the deep blue of the panels against which golden-yellow arabesques are silhouetted, the red of the sinuous frames of the various panels, and the large, luminous frescoes that open up in the central section of the ceiling. A majestic work.
Why it is special: a treasure trove of art and relics
The basilica contains interesting works of art inside, such as the apse fresco attributed to Michelangelo Cerruti, or the statue depicting St. Anastasia in a moment of ecstasy, placed under the altar. However, there are other riches hidden in a protected room: the relics of St. Joseph's cloak and Mary's veil, which were allegedly brought here by St. Jerome. It all lends a strong sacredness to this beautiful and fascinating church in the center of Rome.
A bit of history
Founded in the fourth century, the basilica has undergone several modifications over the centuries. In the 17th century, under the pontificate of Urban VIII, it was restored and took on the Baroque appearance it retains today. Until the 18th century, the church was the starting point of the penitential procession, which was held annually on Ash Wednesday. This was presided over by the pope, and ended at the basilica of Santa Sabina, where the first stationary mass of Lent was celebrated.
Fun fact: The Jubilee of 2000.
The basilica of St. Anastasia can boast several accolades and firsts: it is linked to the tradition of perpetual Eucharistic celebration, being the first church in Rome to adopt this practice since 2001. It also played a leading role in the Jubilee of 2000, when it hosted more than 700 hosts for the Mass held by Pope John Paul II at the Circus Maximus.
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