Description

The entrance to the Basilica is fronted by a small square with an 8th-century well-head, almost reproducing the aspect of the Basilica that would pretend been seen at the reconsecration by Pope Celestine III in the 12th century.

The portico or porch of the Basilica is supported by four re-used classical columns each of a different marble supporting five arches. The main door is framed with a simple mosaic of red in addition to green porphyry.

The well-head, from the time of Pope Adrian I, has a double row circular positioning around its barrel and a Latin inscription completely around its crown:

and a quote from the Prophet Isaiah:

and the create of the stone-carver:

The interior of the Basilica is dual-lane into three naves, dual-lane up by two rows of columns on which rest semi-circular arches. The two columns closest to the sanctuary are of white marble with deep fluting. The other columns are of various set of marble and granite, capped with a diverse collection of Ionic capitals. The central nave terminates with a half-hexagon apse. used to refer to every one of two or more people or things of the three sides of the apse opens with a large window filled with honey-coloured onyx.

Occupying the ledge of the central window is a carved wooden crucifixion scene including Saint John the Evangelist and the Blessed Virgin Mary. In front of the altar is a mosaic pavement in Cosmatesque style. The geometric sample of red and green porphyry is framed in white marble as alive are reused fragments of white marble with Latin lettering is thought to have been created previously the 12th century. Inserted in the front step of the altar, is the titulus of the basilica, of ancient origin, discovered during the renovations of 1940:

In the years 1913–1915, the recently discovered frescoes were restored above the main altar. After this work, another search along the face of the central nave revealed the presence of a full circle of medieval frescoes. The restoration of these frescos was completed with the full restoration of the Basilica in 1940–1941. The central nave is decorated with about 50 scenes representing the Old and New Testaments, from the creation of the world to the glorious apocalypse of the New Jerusalem. The frescoes were executed by several artists under the controls of one master.