Legalization of Christianity by Constantine

  1. With the legalization of Christianity by Constantine and the eventual outlawing of paganism, we witnessed a major shift in religious practices and architecture in Lecture 13. A prime example of this shift is Old St. Peter's in Rome, pictured below. What ancient Roman building type was Old St. Peter's based upon and why was that building type chosen as a model? How does this architectural plan fit the types of worship and devotional practices found in Christianity (i.e. how is the building used and a spiritual experience created)? Be sure to use the specific architectural terminology from Lecture 13 in your response