The Basilicas

Paper Summary:

This paper identifies and examines the three main basilicas in the Forum Romanum: Aemilia, Julia and Sempronia. The paper presents them as massive structures, generally rectangular in shape with two or more semi-circular apses or recesses. The paper explains how these basilicas were highly illuminated through the use of clerestory windows, usually greatly elevated and above the roof itself. The paper contends that in these beautiful structures, one can easily sense the Roman desire for broad, uninterrupted architectural spaces enclosed for the convenience of human transaction. The paper also explains the importance of the basilicas to the citizens of Rome, as they provided a place to meet, to converse and to witness the majesty of imperial Rome on a daily basis.

From the Paper:

"During the Republican period in ancient Rome, most buildings were constructed as the need arose and were designed to serve public utility or the religious and commemorative needs of the State. And within the vast complex known as the city of Rome, the Forum Romanum served as the center of political life; it was also a place where the Roman Senate met at regular intervals and where the citizens of Rome could behold public spectacles, banquets and gladiatorial contests (Dudley, p. 48).
Thus, the Forum Romanum was, in many respects, the heart of things in ancient Rome, the administrative and social center of the city whose magnificent buildings were constructed over the site of the earliest settlements (Arnott, p. 17). In essence, the Forum Romanum was the galactic hub of Rome and allowed all of the citizens to participate in the daily activities of the city and to socialize with friends, family and, at times, enemies."

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