Title of Art: Sancta Sanctorum
Art Form: Mosaic
Subjects: Mary, Mother of God
Exhibit Institution: Palazzo Lateranense (Lateran Apostolic Palace)
Exhibit Location: Rome, Italy
VM Image #: 0060
Photographer: Shala Graham
Date of Photograph: December 31, 2022
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View of the Holy of Holies, Sancta Sanctorum, in the Lateran Palace.
The small chapel, called the Holy of Holies (Sancta Sanctorum) is comprised of a gothic-styled altar room and main room. Access is restricted; visitors may view only through grilled windows. The main room features 13th century frescoes that narrate the martyrdoms of apostles Peter, Paul, Stephen, and saints Lawrence and Agnes. The altar room preserves precious relics from the 9th century and the portrait of Jesus which was painted by angels according to medieval legend. Additionally, the altar room features 13th century golden mosaics of Peter, Paul, Lawrence, and Agnes.