In Rome, there are certain areas that are quite popular for real estate. The homes and apartments are really expensive in this area. The Aventine is located in one of these areas. It is a hill that has historical importance, being one of the seven historical hills of Rome and one of the most ancient memorials of the Roman past. The basilica of San Saba is situated on this hill, which was given into the pastoral care of the Jesuit fathers.
The Basilica became a parish under Pope Pius IX with the Bull Incolarum numero in 1931. But it is not likely that these recent developments tell us everything that we need to know about this basilica because this area was the seat of an intense monastic life since ancient times and some say that the basilica was built on the place where Saint Silvia, the mother of Gregory the Great lived. During the centuries this place was given into the care of various monastic congregations until it was presently given to the Jesuits, as stated earlier.
On the website of the Basilica, we can find the following description: “The basilica of San Saba is an example of medieval Romanesque architecture. The structure takes up the plan of the early Christian churches: three naves, each with an apse, marked by columns. The bell tower is a typical example of a medieval tower. In 1205, the Cosmatesque floor was added with five large discs of different marble placed in the center. On the left side, there is a fourth nave (perhaps an original portico) in which the 13th-century frescoes are still visible. You enter the courtyard through a portal placed on top of a gratin. Above the portico, there is a brick structure marked by five windows. Below, there are finds from the ancient complex and the surrounding archaeological area.”
San Saba is a parish full of cultural and spiritual activities, with a polyphonic choir in residence and a theatre for sacred representations. Of course, being a Jesuit parish, there are also a lot of activities inspired by the pastoral action of the present Pontiff. One of them is called “church, house for everyone”, where the fathers attempt to create an inclusive environment for everyone to attend. Another feature offered is the Ignatian method of prayer, the spiritual exercises, available for those who want to experiment with this form of spiritual retreat in their life. An experience that can certainly benefit the spiritual life of the faithful, being experimented in centuries of practice and deep consideration. In sum, a church that brings us some of the features of the Jesuit tradition immersed i
Follow
