Athena Review Image Archive ™
Rome: Forum, Basilica of Maxentius (16th c. drawing)
Rome: Forum, drawing of the Basilica of Maxentius (Anon., 16th c.)
This 16th century drawing of the Basilica of Maxentius shows several notable features. First, it looks to be in about the same general condition as when Piranesi drew it two centuries later. Also, the ground level is as high as in the 18th century. Thirdly, based on the cross on top, it seems in the 16th century it was being used as a chapel.
Finally, there seems to be considerable amount of loose stonework and other structural debris in front of the basilica. Note that, when this drawing was made, interest in the ancient Roman ruins had only recently been awakened in the Renaissance.
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