Basilica of Maxentius
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The basilica of Maxentius, sometimes known as the basilica of Constantine, (Basilica Nova or Basilica Maxentius) was the largest building in the Roman Forum. The basilica was started by Maxentius (ruled 306-312) in 308, on the northern side of the forum, and finished by the Emperor Constantine I, after his defeat of Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge (312).
Like the great imperial baths, the basilica has a central aisle spanned by cross vaults with the side aisles divided by wide arches supported on large piers. The structure originally consisted of an aisle and two naves. The aisle, which no longer exists, is thought to have been 53 metres high; the naves, one of which survives, were 25 metres high.
In modern usage, a basilica has come to be defined as a place of worship; during ancient Rome, it was a combination of a court-house, council chamber and meeting hall. There were, however, numerous alcoves where statues of the Gods were on display.
The ceiling of the basilica, still present over one nave, shows advanced weight-saving structural skill.
On the outside wall of the basilica, facing onto the via dei Fori Imperiali, are contemporary maps showing the various stages of the rise of the Roman Empire.
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