Basilica
A large public building used for multiple purposes, including business and political matters
Basilica (plural basilicae) is a Latin term referring to a large public building in ancient Rome that could be used for multiple purposes including business, politics, and entertainment. The modern meaning of the word comes from the eventual appropriation of the architectural form by Christian churches. Basilicae were usually large rectangular spaces that were sectioned off by rows of columns and covered by a roof - and their rectangular shape made them ideal structures for lining long sections of city space (Becker, n.d.). Basilicae often conformed to consistent layouts and building methods. Vitruvius, writing in the first century BCE, described basilicae as having a central nave surrounded by four sides of columns with smaller aisles on the sides and ends - and this layout is seen copied throughout Roman basilicae (Walthew, 1995). Vitruvius also stated that basilicae should be constructed attached to the Forum on its warmest side, so that business could continue in the winter without too much discomfort to the merchants (Vitruvius, Morgan trans. 1914). While basilicae were certainly not all built to each specific standard laid out by Vitruvius, his description provides a general blueprint for the typical Roman basilica. Although the name and location of the first basilica in Rome is disputed, sources indicate that it was the Basilica Porcia, built in 184 BCE. Basilicae were massive structures and, aside from their intended uses for politics or commerce, they served as means of escape from the noise and heat of Roman streets (Schrager, 2005).
Bibliography
Viruvius, Morgan translation, 1914.
Latin Dictionary Entry
Basilica - Perseus Digital Library
Jay Brodzeller, 2022