East Hall Apse Detail

East Hall Apse Detail

A detailed view of the raised apse of the East Hall—looking north.  In this photo, the variegated marble paneling is highlighted as are the marble pilasters here in the apse.


The excavator believes that originally this was either the dining room of the house, or a designated space for women, and that it was later converted into a space for Christians to gather—thus "a Church."

The evidence for this being a "Church" seems to be based upon the findings of a Christogram and "the eyes of God" found in the "narthex" of this structure.  (My limited knowledge of this is based upon a sign at the site).

The "Peristyle House with Church" is located south of the Large/North Theater;  It seems to have been constructed in the 3rd-century AD and was destroyed in the earthquake during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Focas (AD 602-610).