The last four station churches have been San Clemente, Ss. Dodici Apostoli, San Pietro in Vaticano, and San Bartolomeo all’Isola.
The Basilica of the Twelve Apostles is another one of those glorious basilicas that you never knew existed. St. James the Lesser and St. Philip are both in the crypt under the main altar. The church has beautiful side chapels full of relics and glorious art.
St. Peter’s was on Saturday. Reusing this picture taken last semester. Always glorious being in St. Peter’s. Be sure to use the prayer line to get in, otherwise you’ll miss mass standing in line.
San Clemente was Monday’s station church. It has one of the most beautiful mosaics I’ve ever seen. San Clemente sits atop well preserved ruins from as early as the 4th century. It was discovered by a priest, who one day while gardening fell 20ft into the ground. It was one of the biggest discoveries in Rome. So big in fact the Pope at the time came down to see discovery of the ancient ruins. It is now a huge destination for tourists to get a taste of what ancient Rome was like. Fascinating especially when you consider how Rome has been built on top of itself for centuries. Here is a picture of the walls patched with these ancient stone and marble carvings (our professor told me they’re worth up to millions):
Here is a picture of the mosaic of San Clemente up close:
Today’s station mass was at San Bartolomeo all’Isola. The church is located on Tiber Island (google it, pretty cool).
Beautiful church.
JPD