Basilica C

 basilica, ruins

Basilica C is an average size monument, with maximal dimensions 33 x 22,8 meters. It is a three-aisled church, with a narthex, flanked to the North and South by two liturgical annexes and the portico. The central aisle is larger and ends up to the East with a semi-circular apse. The apse is equipped with a three-stepped synthronon, to accommodate the clergy during services. In front of the synthronon was the altar, which stood atop a reliquary deposit, and from which only the base is preserved. The separation between the aisles is accomplished by columns resting on high stylobates, surmounted by ionic impost capitals richly decorated. The spaces between the columns are closed by parapets. The sanctuary and one of the annexes is paved with mosaics, showing geometric and floral patterns, zoomorphic and anthropomorphic representations. The most impressive scenes are the two panels showing a procession of six lambs each, going up to the altar, a symbolic personification of the Twelve Apostles, another panel represents members of the clergy holding candelabras entering the church. An inscription in the mosaic pavement records the construction of the mosaic pavement during the time of the otherwise unknown Bishop Praesios. A probable date for the construction of the basilica is considered the second quarter of the sixth century AD.

Jan 2022: i.imgur.com/zVi4LRY.jpg