Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma, Italy Construction Dates: 630 AD - 1936 AD History: The Church of Sant'Adriano al ...
Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma, Italy
Construction Dates: 630 AD - 1936 AD
History:
The Church of Sant'Adriano al Foro stands as a captivating testament to Rome's rich history, seamlessly blending ancient and modern architectural elements. The church's origins can be traced back to the 7th century AD (630 AD), when Pope Honorius I transformed the Curia Julia, the ancient Roman Senate building, into a church dedicated to Saint Adrian of Nicomedia, a martyr who was persecuted under Emperor Diocletian.
The church underwent several renovations over the centuries, incorporating elements of both Romanesque and Baroque styles. In 1936, during the excavations of the Roman Forum, the church was deconsecrated and transformed into a museum to house the archaeological finds unearthed from the site. However, the church's exterior remains largely intact, retaining its original structure and serving as a poignant reminder of the city's ancient past. It is, in reality, the original structure of Curia Julia that was converted into a church.
Patron Saint:
Saint Adrian of Nicomedia was a Roman soldier who converted to Christianity and was martyred under Emperor Diocletian. He is revered for his unwavering faith and his willingness to suffer for his beliefs.
Important Artworks:
The Church of Sant'Adriano al Foro once housed a collection of valuable artworks, including frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Saint Adrian and a mosaic of the Virgin Mary and Child. However, these artworks were removed during the renovations in 1936 and are now housed in the General Curia of the Merecedarians in Rome. Most of the interior furnishings were transferred to the Santa Maria della Mercede and Sant'Adriano church, built in the 1950s in the Salario district.
From the thirteenth century, the interior was three naves, with a raised apse and crypt. A side chapel was decorated with 8th-century paintings depicting stories of the life of Saint Hadrian. Also of this time were the paintings that decorated the niches inside the church. The church was adorned with two stoups, supported by marble statues of angels by Antonio Raggi. The altarpiece of the high altar, depicting Saint Hadrian and other saints, was the work of Cesare Torelli. Other paintings adorned the side altars, including works by Carlo Veneziano and students of Carlo Maratta.
Connection to the Claretian Missionaries:
Since the church is part of the then convent of the Mercedarians where St. Anthony Mary Claret had lived during the days of the Vatican I, the church is of utmost importance to the history of the Claretian Missionaries. It is one of the itineraries of the Claretian Tour in Rome.
The Virgin Mary that used to be in the convent, the kneeler, and the bed St. Anthony Mary Claret used in the then convent place are now displayed at the Claret Chapel Museum at the General Curia of the Claretian Missionaries in Rome.
.jpg)
.jpg)
Public Transportation:
To reach the Church of Sant'Adriano al Foro using public transportation, take the B metro line to Colosseo station. From Colosseo station, it is a short walk of approximately 5 minutes to the church.
Note: You can only enter the then Church of St. Adrian at the Roman Forum by obtaining a Super Ticket for the Roman Forum and or Colosseum of the Archeological Park and if there is an exhibit or an event. The Curia Julia is not always open to public.
Conclusion:
The Church of Sant'Adriano al Foro offers a unique glimpse into Rome's fascinating history, bridging the gap between ancient and modern Rome. Its transformation from a church to a museum reflects the city's continuous evolution and its commitment to preserving its rich heritage.
No comments