Catacomb of Priscilla, Rome, late 2nd century through the 4th century C.E. Speakers: Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker Created by Beth Harris and Steven Zucker.
The tufa appears to sparkle.. It's lovely. I do remember Priscilla being important to the early church from Paul's writings, but wasn't aware of this Catacomb. Christian iconography isn't discussed much beyond the cross, so I enjoyed learning about the various images here. The "IXOYC" acrostic made my day. So much more could be said about this video, it's a favorite. ...peacocks??
I remember having fun writing the acrostic out in a manner that would make sense when we made the video. Visiting the catacombs of Priscilla was a an amazing experience.
@@smarthistory-art-history It sounds incredible, I would've popped - from being there and mapping out the acrostic. This is definitely at the top of my list of places I want to see in person thanks to Smarthistory so far, lol.
Outstanding explanation of this catacomb's iconography, which I find very moving in the context of the times these early Christians lived when practicing your religion could cost you your life. God bless these early saints.
Wow! Thanks for this! This is the definitive Early Christian iconographic video reference. Cuts time in reading voluminous pages on Early Christian Art.
Thank you for the visuals of the catacombs and the accompanying verbal descriptions. Defining terms used was also very helpful. Thank you for this video.
I did not know how large it all was and how much used it was as well (40 000 graves?). It's great to see so many pictures of the place with bits of the historical context.
I've been to this Catacomb. I would have liked to have seen the space where early Masses may have been celebrated. Otherwise, this was very good discussion of early Christian iconography and typology. Thanks!
The catacombs were also used by WW2 Allied forces. There is some etched graffitti. Some corridors still have the bones of ancestors. I especially enjoyed the simple chapel. (our family trip Dec 2009) Interesting the mural of 7 breaking bread--they could be teh 7 women who accompanied Jesus in addition to the male disciples.
That’s what I thought too. I assume this art would have to have been from a time when the early “Jesus movement” still somewhat resembled late Second Temple Judaism instead of a completely separate faith.
