Rome - Basilica of Maxentius

(Local Name: Basilica di Massenzio) The ruins of the Basilica of Maxentius or of Constantine (begun in A.D. 306-312 by Maxentius and completed by Constantine), between the Via dei Fori Imperiali and the Forum, still give an imposing impression of this great building, which, like other Roman basilicas, served both as a law court and a place for doing business. The central aisle, with a vaulted roof, measured 60x25m/220x80ft, and rose to a height of 35m/115ft; the lateral aisles were 24.5m/80ft high. The basilica was modeled on the gigantic Baths erected by Caracalla and Diocletian. The main piers were fronted by massive Corinthian columns, one of which, bearing a statue of the Virgin, now stands in front of the