San Clemente - Monday, Second Week of Lent
- Rick Bessey
- Mar 2
- 2 min read
Within an easy walk of the Colosseum you will find the Basilica of San Clemente, a basilica which embodies all the layers of history in Rome. If you do not know what you are looking for, it would be easy to miss this fascinating church. The entrance to the church is through a portico that is walled on the outside, and, from the outside, it is a very plain wall at that.
But this building has literal layers of history:
The lower level consists of the remains of buildings from the Roman Imperial period. This level exists as a result of the building program following the great fire of Nero, in AD 64.
The middle level consists of the remains of the earliest church, which was likely established during the time of St. Jerome, or about AD 400. This church fell into disuse by 1100.
The upper level is the current church. It has undergone extensive renovations, but much of the ancient church remains.
It should be pointed out that you can actually visit all these levels of the basilica! Excavations and preservations have turned this church into quite an experience, allowing you to understand the complexities and history of what is modern Rome!
Among the splendors of the Basilica of San Clemente is the beautiful floor, a style of mosaic which is called Cosmatesque. Notice also the beautiful mosaic of the apse, a vine symbolizing the living church. The gold work echoes the earlier Byzantine moscaicists.
The renovations of the basilica are outstanding and the visitor has the ability to explore the other levels of the church. The church has an incredibly navigable and useful website, where they showcase all the work that has been done to make this church accessible and encourage visits. Take the time to explore this amazing site, so close to the Colosseum and the center of Rome.
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![A wide-angle view of the grand peristyle courtyard (quadriporticus) leading to the basilica entrance. In the center, a monumental stone statue of Saint Paul stands as an artistic anchor, holding a sword to symbolize his martyrdom [cite: 2026-02-23]. The upper level of the church facade is adorned with a brilliant golden mosaic that reflects the sunlight, depicting Christ and the Apostles against a shimmering background. The expansive courtyard and set-back position from the street highlight its unique location on the outskirts of the ancient city walls.](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/e9808f_756a753a5baf468fa93d6facc042baa0~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_799,h_533,al_c,q_85,enc_avif,quality_auto/e9808f_756a753a5baf468fa93d6facc042baa0~mv2.jpg)
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