Basilica of Maxentius

The Basilica of Maxentius, also known as the Basilica Nova, is one of the most imposing and fascinating buildings in the Roman Forum. Built between 308 and 312 AD by Emperor Maxentius and completed by Emperor Constantine after the victory in the Battle of the Milvian Bridge, the basilica represents an extraordinary example of late Roman architecture. Located on the Velia, between the Palatine and the Esquiline Hill, the Basilica of Maxentius was the largest civil basilica in the monumental center of Rome, covering an area of about 100 meters in length and 65 meters in width. The structure was characterized by a central nave 35 meters high, covered by one of the largest barrel vaults ever built in antiquity, demonstrating the advanced level of skill of Roman engineers. The side aisles, on the other hand, were covered by groin vaults, an engineering solution that allowed for effective weight distribution and the creation of spacious interiors without the use of many columns. The basilica’s rectangular plan was divided into three naves. The central nave was flanked by six side bays, three on each side, replacing the traditional smaller naves. These bays were covered by barrel vaults with octagonal coffers, still visible in the surviving part of the building. In the center of the central nave, a huge statue of Constantine, about 12 meters high, dominated the space. This colossal statue, of the acrolith type, had exposed parts such as the head, arms, and legs made of marble, while the rest of the body was made of gilded bronze. One of the most significant innovations of the basilica was the use of opus caementicium, a type of Roman concrete that allowed for the construction of large vaulted structures. This construction technique, combined with the use of 14.50-meter-high Proconnesian marble columns, allowed for the creation of spacious and luminous interiors, which greatly influenced the architecture of later Christian churches. The large arch openings between the side bays allowed for the passage of light and the creation of a spacious and welcoming environment. The basilica was also the scene of important historical events. During the Middle Ages, the building was looted and many of its marbles were reused in other constructions. In 1349, an earthquake caused much of the vaults to collapse, leaving only one of the eight columns standing, which was later transferred to the square of Santa Maria Maggiore by Pope Paul V in 1614. During the Renaissance, the basilica was studied by architects and artists such as Andrea Palladio, who considered it a model of architectural perfection. An interesting anecdote concerns the use of the basilica during the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome, when the building was adapted to host Greco-Roman wrestling and freestyle wrestling competitions. Platforms for athletes, stands for the public, and a lighting system for evening events were set up, making the spectacle even more impressive. The basilica is located near other important monuments, such as the Temple of Peace and the Temple of Venus and Roma, which were part of Maxentius’ grand urban project to restore Rome to its ancient splendor. Its main function was to host the judicial activity of the urban prefect and other civil functions, similar to other Roman basilicas of the time. Despite the devastations suffered over the centuries, the remains of the Basilica of Maxentius continue to be a reference point for understanding late Roman architecture. Its influence also extends to the ecclesiastical architecture of the Renaissance and Baroque periods, demonstrating its lasting importance in the world architectural landscape.