Archaeologists uncover 4th-century Christian church complex near Rome

Remains of one of the largest early Christian churches, built about 1700 years ago in Ostia. Photo: Ostia Project Archive

In early February 2026, in Ostia, the ancient port of Rome, archaeologists uncovered the remains of one of the largest early Christian churches, built about 1700 years ago. The find dates to the 4th century, the period of Christianity's establishment in the Roman Empire. This is reported by Arkeonews.

The excavations revealed that the religious complex included not only the temple itself but also the bishop's palace, indicating the high status of Ostia's Christian community. The architecture of the structures demonstrates the influence of secular construction of late antiquity.

The structure was located just a few centimeters from the surface and has suffered almost no damage over the centuries, despite agricultural work. Thanks to this, archaeologists were able to record the original layout, which is rare for early Christian churches, most of which were rebuilt in the Middle Ages.

The complex occupied an area of about 50 by 80 meters and included a church with a baptistery and atrium. Scholars paid special attention to the large hall of the bishop's palace, measuring approximately 8 by 20 meters and at least 8 meters high, decorated with marble and mosaics.

Researchers note that the church was erected during the era of Emperor Constantine the Great and represents value for studying early forms of Christian architecture and the role of bishops in the public life of the late antique city.

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that Britain faced a problem when converting a church into a residential building.

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