Description of the attraction
Aula Palatina is a unique, well-preserved basilica, a magnificent monument of ancient Roman architecture. From the moment of its construction in 310, the Aula Palatina was the palace of the first Christian emperor Constantine and since then has hardly been rebuilt, despite numerous changes of owners and appointments. In this rather large flat brick building, only the interior was changed. Deprived of any external decorations, Aula Palatina amazes with its majesty and strict simplicity.
After the fall of the power of Rome, the Basilica of Constantine became the seat of the Frankish kings, and it was at this time that the black and white marble floors and rich inlays suffered irreparable damage. From the 12th century, Aula Palatina served as the seat of the archbishops of Trier, and from the 17th century it became part of the Elector's castle. During the Napoleonic Wars, the basilica was used as a barracks. By the decision of King Frederick William IV of Prussia, by the middle of the 19th century, Aula Palatine was converted into the Evangelical Church of the Holy Savior.
The greatest damage during the existence of the Basilica of Constantine was inflicted on it during the Second World War. A shell from the Allied forces that fell into it in 1944 partially damaged the structure. And even the extensive post-war restoration could not return the building to its original appearance. Aula Palatina lost several towers on the roof and part of the church decoration.
