Which architectural feature demonstrates the efforts of church builders at the Benedictine Church of San Clemente in Rome to reclaim the artistic and spiritual legacy of the early church?
A) the use of spolia
B) the apse decoration
C) use of a timber roof
D) all of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The use of spolia, or the reuse of ancient materials and elements in the construction of new buildings, was a common practice during the medieval period. At the Benedictine Church of San Clemente in Rome, spolia was used extensively, including the reuse of ancient columns and capitals in the nave and aisles. The apse decoration, which features mosaic depictions of Christ and various saints, was another way in which the church builders sought to connect with the early Christian tradition. Finally, the use of a timber roof, rather than a vaulted stone roof, was another sign of the church builders' desire to harken back to the earlier days of Christian architecture. All of these features together demonstrate the efforts of the church builders to reclaim and celebrate the artistic and spiritual legacy of the early church.

Which Architectural Feature Demonstrates the Efforts of Church Builders at the Benedictine