The Medieval World, C. 400–1300

Early Jewish and Christian Art

What is a centrally planned church?

A centrally planned church is a church with the altar at the center, and was often used for baptisteries or tombs. The Church of Santa Costanza is an example of a centrally planned church, featuring a central altar surrounded by an ambulatory. The ambulatory is made up of paired Corinthian columns. The Church of Santa Costanza was originally covered in elaborate mosaics and marble.



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