Constantinian Basilicas: Jerusalem, Rome, Bethlehem
Basilica of the Anastasis, Jerusalem (circa 336)
The Constantinian basilica, originally a tripartite structure (Martyrion, Triportico, and Anastasis), is now primarily represented by the Rotunda of the Anastasis. This rotunda, frequently restored, stands as a grand mausoleum over the purported empty tomb of Christ. It is considered a significant temple of martyrs, with known architects, a rarity for the time: Eustace and Cenobio of Constantinople.
The Anastasis was designed to accommodate pilgrims visiting the tomb of Christ. Its circular form is defined by columns surrounding an ambulatory. Nearby, a large atrium (colonnaded courtyard) with porches on three sides provides access to the Martyrion building. The atrium is trapezoidal in shape and features a grand staircase.
Behind the atrium lies a basilica with five naves. The nave is oriented west, mirroring the Martyrion building, and culminates in a semicircular apse encircled by twelve columns, symbolizing the apostles. From the sanctuary, one could access the atrium and view the site of Calvary, where Christ was martyred.
Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, Rome (circa 329)
The Church of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme (or Basilica Sessoriana) was adapted from the Sessorian Palace in the early fourth century by St. Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine. Helena’s pilgrimage to Jerusalem led her to return with a fragment of the True Cross, which she deposited in her palace, thus establishing the church.
This architecture dates back to the time of Constantine, around 329. The Palatine Chapel, located near the palace, houses a relic of the Cross of Christ.
The structure features a physical separation between the rectangular area topped with a semicircular apse and a tripartite division between the naves. The choir is situated in the middle section, creating a hierarchical space within the chapel.
Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem (circa 333)
This church commemorates the birth of Christ. Its design combines a central plan with a polygonal martyrdom area, featuring an opening in the deck that connects the central part of the basilica with the main structure.
The church comprises five naves, with the central nave being wider and taller. Columns with lintels separate the naves. A semicircular triumphal arch divides the martyrdom area from the nave. The portico was essential for accommodating pilgrims in a covered space. The original basilica, built around 333, was a square building approximately 29 meters per side, housing a five-nave basilica and an octagon at its head, replacing the apse, while the low transept interrupted.
A broad esplanade led to a rectangular atrium and a narthex, which served as a propyleum before the basilica. The octagon had a pyramidal roof with an opening overhead and a hole in the floor, protected by a railing, allowing pilgrims to view the Cave of the Nativity.
During the time of Justinian, the church was extended longitudinally in both directions. This renovation replaced the octagon with a three-lobed sanctuary, featuring three apses facing each other, defining a transept topped by exedras. While the current construction is more typical of the Justinian period, it remains one of the few basilicas described as a “Constantinian basilica.”