Triumphal Arch

Triumphal Arch

View looking east at the mosaic at the top of the Triumphal Arch.  Although heavily reconstructed this is a relic of the old pre–fire of 1823 arch.

On the top is a "grim–faced" Christ holding his hand blessing in the Greek manner.  The four winged creatures above him have "faces" that represent the four Evangelists—gospel writers.  Below them are figures representing the saint of the Apocalyse (book of Revelation).  On the lower left side of the arch is St. Paul with a sword (of the spirit/word) and to the right St. Peter holding the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.