Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
saic tombstone of Muñoz de Zamora, one of the order's founding fathers, in the nave floor. A 20th-century restor-
ation returned it to its original austere look.
One of the few surviving 4th-century elements are the basilica's cypress-wood doors on the church's left flank.
They feature 18 carved panels depicting biblical events, including one of the oldest Crucifixion scenes in existen-
ce. It's quite hard to make out in the top left, but it depicts Jesus and the two thieves although, strangely, not their
crosses.
Inside, the three naves are separated by 24 custom-made Corinthian columns which support an arcade decor-
ated with a faded red-and-green frieze. Light streams in from high nave windows that were added in the 9th cen-
tury, along with the carved choir, pulpit and bishop's throne.
Behind the church is a garden and a meditative 13th-century cloister, where St Dominic is said to have planted
Italy's first ever orange tree.
DON'T MISS…
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The cypress-wood doors
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Tombstone of Muñoz de Zamora
PRACTICALITIES
Testaccio
CIMITERO ACATTOLICO PER GLI STRANIERI
(Via Caio Cestio 5; voluntary donation €3; 9am-5pm Mon-Sat, to 1pm Sun; Piramide)
Despite the roads
that surround it, Rome's 'non-Catholic' Cemetery is a surprisingly tranquil place. Percy
CEMETERY