Archaeologists discover 4th-century Christian basilica in Italy
Italian authorities have decided to revise a residential development plan in order to preserve the archaeological find from the Late Antiquity period.
In the Italian city of Oderzo, scientists have excavated the remains of an ancient 4th-century Christian church featuring unique coloured mosaics. The find was made in the province of Treviso during the preparation of a site for residential construction on the grounds of a former fish market. This was reported by La Divina Cultura.
Specialists have cleared the foundation of a large three-nave structure with massive outer walls and buttresses. The building's characteristic layout and four burials located immediately adjacent to the structure indicate its ecclesiastical nature.
The most valuable part of the find proved to be the multicoloured mosaics featuring geometric and floral patterns, including depictions of acanthus leaves and the "Solomon's Knot."
According to researchers, the discovery proves the active spread of Christianity in northern Italy during the Late Antiquity period. Scholars draw parallels between the discovered basilica and well-known early Christian centres in Aquileia and other parts of Italy. The find also confirms the city's strategic role during the formation of the region's ecclesiastical architectural tradition.
A temporary protective roof has already been erected over the excavation site to protect the ancient floors from the effects of inclement weather. The authorities plan to modify the design of the future residential complex so that the mosaics and the remains of the church become accessible for public viewing. Archaeologists describe the find in Oderzo as one of the most significant discoveries in the region in recent times.
As the SPJ previously reported, evidence of early Christians' struggle against paganism was found in Turkey.
