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. . . THIS MAY TAKE A MOMENT OR TWO . . .
Situated in a beautiful park like setting not far from St. John Lateran Cathedral, the basilica is often overlooked by tourists. |
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The 14th century medieval basilica outlined in black lines here on this plan would have been far simpler than the Renaissance/Baroque era embellishments (seen here in grey).. | |
Medieval church (during or shortly after our Order's tenure in the church). | |
The nave, behind which is the reliquary (which is entered from a doorway on the left hand side) | |
Closeup of the main altar area. | |
In this reliquary are the relics of the true cross, crown of thorns and the 'INRI' sign brought back to Rome by St. Helen (mother of the first Christian Emperor, Constantine) |
The panoply of relics in the reliquary
Pieces of the True Cross, in the arms and stem of the reliquary cross.
INRI 'Titulus' sign hung over the cross
Nail
Thorns
Digit of St. Thomas which probed the Sacred Wounds.