Staircase Martyrium in Ss. Giovanni e Paolo, Caelian Hill, Rome

Staircase Martyrium in Ss. Giovanni e Paolo, Caelian Hill, Rome

This image is the front-facing view of the martyrium built in the late 4th century by Pammachius and Paulina at the top of a renovated landing of their house on the Caelian Hill, meant for their private devotion. The house later converted into Ss. Giovanni e Paolo Church. While it is uncertain to whom the reliquary was dedicated, Ana Munk supports the theory, based on the martyrdom scenes associated with it, the shrine was dedicated to Ss. Crispo, Crispiano, and Benedetta (right). This shrine best exemplifies the continuation of domestic devotion among late antique Christians, such as among this wealthy Roman, senatorial family.

Given that Pammachius died before the Sack of Rome in 410, the shrine was probably constructed between 385, when Pammachius married Paulina, and his death in 410.

Ana Munk

Ana Munk. "Domestic Piety in Fourth Century Rome: A Relic Shrine Beneath the Church of Ss. Giovanni e Paolo." Hortus Artium Medievalium 15, no. 1. 2009.

2009

Photo Taken by Ana Munk; permission granted