Curiosities about the Basilica of Saints John and Paul on the Caelian Hill: a hidden gem of Rome

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Located on the Caelian Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome, the Basilica of Saints John and Paul is a hidden treasure often overlooked by tourists but deeply appreciated by lovers of history, art, and spirituality. This church, built in the 4th century, is not only an architectural masterpiece, but it also holds fascinating stories, legends of martyrs, and archaeological mysteries. Let’s explore some of the curiosities that make this basilica unique.

The Legend of Saints John and Paul

The basilica is named after two brothers, John and Paul, who were martyred during the reign of Emperor Julian the Apostate in 362 AD. Legend has it that they were court officers under Emperor Constantine but refused to renounce their Christian faith when Julian tried to restore paganism. They were executed in their home on the Caelian Hill, which was later transformed into the place of worship we know today. It is said that their bodies were buried in the same church, making the basilica an important pilgrimage site.

The Roman Houses of the Caelian Hill: A Journey Back in Time

One of the most fascinating aspects of the basilica is the discovery of the Roman Houses of the Caelian Hill, located beneath the church. This complex of ancient buildings dates back to the 1st-3rd centuries AD and offers an extraordinary glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome. It consists of a series of perfectly preserved private Roman residences, complete with frescoes, mosaics, and decorations that tell the story of the transition from the pagan era to Christianity.

The Roman Houses were discovered in the 19th century and are now open to visitors, allowing them to walk through rooms that once belonged to Roman nobles. One of the most significant houses is the one traditionally believed to have belonged to John and Paul before their martyrdom. The underground atmosphere is almost surreal, as visitors move from rooms decorated with scenes of Roman daily life to spaces used for emerging Christian worship.

The Medieval Bell Tower and Roman Remains

The imposing Romanesque bell tower, dating back to the 12th century, is one of the basilica’s most recognizable symbols. This brick bell tower, with its bifore windows, dominates the square in front and is one of the few intact structures from that historical period in Rome. It is a rare example of Romanesque architecture in the city, and on clear days, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Rome from inside.

Another interesting fact is that many of the basilica’s structures were built using materials recycled from pre-existing Roman buildings, particularly columns and marbles from ancient villas and temples. This reuse of materials makes the basilica a true bridge between ancient Rome and the Christian Middle Ages.

The Medieval Frescoes: A Hidden Artistic Treasure

The interior of the basilica is adorned with a series of extraordinary medieval frescoes, many of which date back to the 13th century. The frescoes depict scenes from the lives of Saints John and Paul, Christ, and the Virgin Mary. These paintings, long forgotten and only restored in the 20th century, are a rare example of medieval Christian art and are certainly worth the attention of anyone visiting the church.

Particularly noteworthy is the fresco depicting the Last Judgment, which decorates the basilica’s apse. This work, characterized by vibrant colors and dramatic scenes, is one of the oldest representations of the Last Judgment theme in Rome and is a must-see for enthusiasts of sacred art.

The Cult of St. Paul of the Cross and the Passion

Another curiosity that many may not know is that the basilica is also the spiritual center of the Congregation of the Passion of Jesus Christ, better known as the Passionists. Founded by St. Paul of the Cross, this religious order had a profound impact on Catholic spirituality in the 18th century. St. Paul of the Cross spent the last years of his life in the basilica, and his remains are preserved in a side chapel. This makes the church not only a place of historical and artistic interest but also an important spiritual center for devotees.

A Secret and Quiet Place in Rome

Despite its beauty and historical value, the Basilica of Saints John and Paul remains a relatively quiet and little-visited place. This makes it a perfect oasis of peace, far from the crowds that fill places like the Colosseum or St. Peter’s Basilica.

Walking through the Caelian Hill neighborhood, with its shaded parks and spectacular views of Rome, and then stopping to visit the basilica, offers a unique experience that provides a glimpse into a lesser-known but equally fascinating side of Rome.