The Colosseum was unfortunately not particularly well-preserved after the fall of the Roman Empire, as valuable materials were stolen. However, Christians eventually took an interest in the Flavian Amphitheater. Use of the Colosseum by religious bodies began in 1309, during the Popes' period of residence at Avignon. The use of the space by Christians continued in 1490 under Pope Innocent VIII, who authorized the Passion of the Christ to be performed on Good Friday. In 1519, at the area where these performances occurred, a chapel was built dedicated to S. Maria della Pieta, which is still in use today. The idea of consecrating the Colosseum spread during the second half of the 16th Century, influenced by the Counter-Reformation. During the 17th Century, the Colosseum was believed to be a place of martyrdom, although little evidence supports that belief. Nevertheless, Clement X dedicated the monument to the Passion of the Christ and the Martyrs. Today, the Pope still stops in front o...
Comments
Post a Comment