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Basilica

A church that follows a longitudinal plan, originally derived from Roman civil architecture.

Centrally Planned Church

A church design with a central space, often topped with a dome, adapted for Christian worship.

Emperor Constantine

The Roman Emperor who legalized Christianity and commissioned the construction of the old Saint Peter's Basilica.

Apse

The semicircular recess at the far end of a church, reserved for the priest and directed towards Jerusalem.

Transept

The transverse arm of a church which crosses the nave, often creating a cross shape.

Nave

The main body of the church where the congregation gathers.

Aisles

Passageways on either side of the nave that facilitate movement within the church.

Atrium

An open courtyard that serves as a gathering space at the entrance of a basilica.

Circus of Nero

The site in Rome where Saint Peter was believed to have been buried and where the old Saint Peter's Basilica was built.

Masonry

The building material made from stone or brick used in the construction of structures like the old Saint Peter's Basilica.

Martyr

A person who is killed for their religious beliefs; Saint Peter was killed under Emperor Nero for his faith.

Byzantine Empire

The eastern half of the Roman Empire, known for its unique centrally planned churches, especially after the 4th century.

Christian Art

Art created to express Christian faith, often reflected in church architecture and iconography during and after the Roman Empire.

Longitudinal Plan

A design that is longer than it is wide, typical of the basilica style used in early church architecture.

Sacred vs. Profane Spaces

The concept of distinguishing areas within a church architecture that are set apart for worship versus those used for everyday purposes.