Basilica of Santi Cosma e Damiano – A Bridge Between the Forum and Christianity

#romanforum The Basilica of Santi Cosma e Damiano is another fascinating example of how the Roman Forum transitioned from a pagan center to a Christian stronghold. This 6th-century church was built using parts of an ancient Roman temple, repurposing a Forum-era building into a place of worship. One of its highlights is the breathtaking Byzantine mosaic in the apse, depicting Christ surrounded by saints, which still dazzles visitors with its golden glow. The church also contains fragments of Roman frescoes, blending Christian and imperial artistic traditions. Santi Cosma e Damiano sits at the edge of the Forum, making it an easy and rewarding stop after exploring the ruins. It’s a perfect example of how Christianity reshaped the Forum’s landscape, preserving its structures while transforming them for a new purpose. If you’re interested in the evolution of the Forum beyond its ancient Roman era, this church is a must-see.